Cervical spondylodiscitis: a rare complication after phonatory prosthesis insertion

Tracheoesophageal puncture has excellent voice rehabilitation after total laryngectomy. However, despite its easy insertion and use, severe complications have been reported.

We report a case of cervical spondylodiscitis, occurring in a 67-year-old woman submitted to phonatory prosthesis insertion. After 1 month, she complained of severe cervicalgia associated with fever. Spondylodiscitis involving C6, C7, and the intervening vertebral disk with medullary compression was detected by means of imaging studies.

A right cervicotomy with drainage of necrotic tissue was performed, and a de-epithelialized fasciocutaneous deltopectoral flap was interposed between the neopharynx-esophagus and the prevertebral fascia to protect the neurovascular axis. MR performed 1 month later showed a complete resolution of the infectious process.

Severe neck pain after tracheoesophageal puncture should alert the physician about the possibility of a cervical spondylodiscitis. MR is the most useful imaging technique for preoperative and postoperative evaluation. When neurologic symptoms are detected, surgical exploration of the neck is mandatory.