Cervical cord compression complicating tracheo-oesophageal puncture

Tracheo-oesophageal puncture for voice restoration is now established as a common procedure in the postlaryngectomy patient. We present what we believe to be the first recorded case of osteomyelitic cervical cord compression following this technique. This is a potentially fatal complication, but diagnosis and active surgical intervention can result in recovery of full neurological function.