Korean J Spine.  2013 Sep;10(3):174-176. 10.14245/kjs.2013.10.3.174.

Delayed Esophageal Perforation after Cervical Spine Plating

• Kim SJ
• Ju CI
• Kim DM
• Kim SW

• KMID: 2140289
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.14245/kjs.2013.10.3.174

Abstract

Although anterior approaches to the cervical spine are popular and safe, they cause some of complications. Esophageal perforation after anterior spinal fusion is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication. We present a rare case of delayed esophageal perforation caused by a cervical screw placed via the anterior approach. A 43-year-old man, who had undergone surgery for complete cord injury at another orthopedic department 8 years previously, was admitted to our institute due to painful neck swelling and dysphagia. Radiological studies revealed a protruding screw and esophageal perforation. The perforation was found during surgery and was successfully repaired. This case emphasizes the need for careful long-term follow-up to check for delayed esophageal perforation in patients that have undergone anterior cervical spine plating.

Keyword

Anterior cervical surgery; Esophageal perforation

MeSH Terms

Adult
Deglutition Disorders
Esophageal Perforation*
Humans
Neck
Orthopedics
Spinal Fusion
Spine*