Pharyngeal symptoms caused by cervical osteophytes

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Degenerative Spine Disease

Background:

• Cervical osteophytes, bony outgrowths on the cervical spine, can lead to dysphagia and a globus sensation.
• Degenerative changes in the cervical spine are common and can manifest in various ways.

Observation:

• A patient presented with a persistent sensation of a 'lump in the throat' (globus pharyngeus).
• Diagnostic imaging revealed significant cervical osteophytes impinging on the pharyngeal area.

Findings:

• Surgical excision of the cervical osteophytes successfully resolved the patient's globus sensation.
• The procedure was technically feasible due to the absence of advanced degenerative changes.

Implications:

• Early surgical intervention for symptomatic cervical osteophytes is crucial before disease progression complicates the procedure.
• This case highlights the importance of considering cervical spine pathology in patients with unexplained globus sensation.
• Optimal operative and postoperative management are key to successful outcomes in such cases.