When Was the Vigevano Maneuver Described?
The Vigevano maneuver was described in the context of hyperekplexia (startle disease) as an emergency rescue technique for relieving life-threatening episodes of generalized stiffness and apnea in affected infants and neonates. 1
Historical Context and Clinical Application
The Vigevano maneuver is specifically referenced in modern medical literature as an emergency intervention that should be taught to all families and healthcare workers caring for patients with hyperekplexia. 1 This maneuver serves as a critical rescue measure for managing acute episodes of excessive stiffness that can lead to respiratory compromise in affected individuals.
Clinical Significance
The maneuver is particularly important in neonates and infants presenting with generalized or episodic stiffness, drug-refractory seizures, recurrent apnea, or stimulus-sensitive behavioral states. 1
It represents a non-pharmacological emergency intervention that can be life-saving when patients experience severe startle-induced stiffening episodes. 1
The technique should be part of the standard education provided to caregivers of patients diagnosed with hyperekplexia, alongside pharmacological management with oral clonazepam and behavioral interventions. 1
Important Clinical Context
Hyperekplexia patients require eliciting a non-habituating head-retraction reflex to repeated nose tapping as part of routine newborn examination. 1
The condition can present with sudden infant death syndrome-like episodes, making knowledge of emergency rescue maneuvers like the Vigevano technique essential for preventing mortality. 1
Note: While Guido da Vigevano was a 13th-14th century Italian physician and engineer who made significant contributions to neuroanatomy and was the first to use illustrations in anatomical descriptions 2, 3, the "Vigevano maneuver" for hyperekplexia appears to be named after a different individual or institution and is described in contemporary medical literature as a clinical technique rather than a historical anatomical contribution.