Abstract
IntroductionAnterior cervical fusion has been performed safely and effectively for decades for the treatment of multiple pathologies, with low rates of morbidity and mortality. Esophageal perforation is a rare but potentially serious complication of anterior cervical spine approaches. There is no consensus regarding the best treatment strategies for this complication.ObjectivesTo determine the prevalence of esophageal perforation following anterior cervical fusion in a single institution and to describe two cases of this complication that were treated with primary repair.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed all consecutive patients who underwent anterior cervical fusion in a single private institution from January 1999 to August 2017. Patients who developed esophageal perforation per- or postoperatively were included in the analysis.ResultsA total of 830 anterior cervical fusion surgeries were performed during the analyzed period. Two cases (0.24%), both of male patients, were complicated by esophageal perforation, one intraoperatively and the other four years after the first surgery. Both patients were treated with primary esophageal repair, and good outcomes were obtained.ConclusionPrimary repair is a therapeutic option in cases of esophageal perforation after anterior cervical fusion. Satisfactory results were obtained in both cases. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the best therapeutic options for this rare complication.
Highlights
Anterior cervical fusion has been performed safely and effectively for decades for the treatment of multiple pathologies, with low rates of morbidity and mortality
To determine the prevalence of esophageal perforation following anterior cervical fusion in a single institution and to describe two cases of this complication that were treated with primary repair
A total of 830 anterior cervical fusion surgeries were performed during the analyzed period
Summary
To determine the prevalence of esophageal perforation following anterior cervical fusion in a single institution and to describe two cases of this complication that were treated with primary repair.Review began 09/12/2020 Review ended 11/07/2020 Published 11/20/2020.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
