J Neurointensive Care.  2023 Oct;6(2):158-162. 10.32587/jnic.2023.00703.

Early Detection and Urgent Surgical Repair of Pharyngeal Injury after Anterior Cervical Surgery: A Case Report

• Jung JW
• Lee JB
• Hur JW
• Lee S
• An S
• Oh Y

• KMID: 2555097
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.32587/jnic.2023.00703

Abstract

This case report addresses pharyngeal perforation, an uncommon complication after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). A 78-year-old male, who initially presented with quadriparesis, underwent ACDF. Post-surgery, the porridge he consumed was observed in the drain tube, leading to complications such as respiratory distress and fever. An emergency exploratory surgery was performed, and a suspected pharyngeal perforation was identified and treated with primary repair and sternocleidomastoid flap. Through thorough post-operative observation, we identified critical signs requiring immediate intervention, allowing for a successful recovery without additional complications. This report emphasizes the importance of early detection and intervention for complications following ACDF, providing valuable insights for clinical practice in neurosurgical intensive care.

Keyword

Anterior cervical surgery; Complication; Perforation; Pharynx; Spinal fusion