Esophageal Perforation Following Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery: Case Report

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.