Dysphagia caused by an anterior cervical osteophyte: case report

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Neurosurgery
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Cervical spondylosis and ankylosing hyperostosis are often asymptomatic.
• Dysphagia from cervical osteophytes is an uncommon presentation.

Observation:

• A patient presented with dysphagia attributed to cervical osteophyte formation.
• Radiographic imaging revealed massive anterior cervical hyperostosis.
• This hyperostosis was compressing the pharynx, leading to swallowing difficulties.

Findings:

• The patient underwent surgical resection of the anterior cervical hyperostosis.
• The procedure was performed using an anterior cervical approach.
• Post-operative assessment showed excellent relief of dysphagia.

Implications:

• Surgical intervention can be highly effective for spondylotic dysphagia caused by significant osteophytes.
• This case highlights the importance of considering osteophyte resection in managing rare causes of dysphagia.
• Further research may explore optimal surgical techniques and patient selection for this condition.