[Torticollis--an unusual origin].

On account of left-sided chronic otitis with cholesteatoma an otherwise healthy eight year-old girl underwent an otological operation lasting five hours. The course was technically uncomplicated. Postoperatively, persistent torticollis with turning of the head to the right was observed. X-ray and CT-scanning revealed atlanto-axial subluxation. No other cause than the rotation of the head during the operation was demonstrated. It is concluded that subluxation should be considered if torticollis is present after operations during which the head has been rotated.