J Korean Dysphagia Soc.  2024 Jan;14(1):80-86. 10.34160/jkds.23.023.

Videofluoroscopic Swallowing Study-Guided Balloon Dilatation for Dysfunction of the UES

• Lee JH
• Kim SB
• Lee KW
• Kim SH

• KMID: 2559400
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.34160/jkds.23.023

Abstract

Dysphagia following anterior cervical spine surgery (ACSS) poses a significant clinical challenge, with recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury emerging as a potential contributor. This case report describes the case of a 55-year-old male who underwent ACSS and subsequently developed dysphagia and hoarseness due to left RLN damage. Employing videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS)-guided balloon dilatation on postoperative day 12, we observed a notable improvement in the opening of the upper esophageal sphincter (UES), as validated by a follow-up VFSS. The patient successfully transitioned from total parenteral nutrition to oral intake, demonstrating the clinical significance of the intervention. Although promising, long-term follow-up studies are warranted to assess the sustained efficacy of VFSS-guided balloon dilatation and the potential recurrence of dysphagia. Safety considerations and protocol variations merit further investigation, emphasizing the need for collaborative multicenter studies. In conclusion, VFSS-guided balloon dilatation is a potentially effective treatment for post-ACSS dysphagia associated with UES dysfunction caused by RLN injury.

Keyword

Videofluoroscopic swallowing study; Anterior cervical spine surgery; Recurrent laryngeal nerve; Balloon dilatation; Upper esophageal sphincter