J Korean Neurosurg Soc.  1993 Apr;22(4):558-561.

Esophageal Perforation Following Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery: Case Report

• Yang JH
• Jeon SS
• Lee KJ
• Sung WH
• Choi CR

Abstract

The authors experienced 4 cases of esophageal perforations following anterior cervical spine surgery. All occurred within a few days in the postoperative period. Diagonosis was made by clinical suspision and confirmed by esophography or reexploration. This complication attributed to sharp blade penetration of a retraction during surgery, infection and use of hardware. 3 cases were successfully treated by drainage, tube feeding and parenteral antibiotics. But unfortunately, 1 case was fatality. Although conservative treatment is required prolonged hospitalization, drainage, tube feeding and parenteral antibiotics are recommended treatment.

Keyword

Anterior cervical spine surgery; Esophageal perforation; Diagnosis; Conservative treatment

MeSH Terms

Anti-Bacterial Agents
Diagnosis
Drainage
Enteral Nutrition
Esophageal Perforation*
Hospitalization
Postoperative Period
Spine*
Anti-Bacterial Agents