Analysis of 5 Rare Cases of Esophageal Fistula after Anterior Cervical Decompression, Bone Graft Fusion and Internal Fixation Surgeries
Abstract Objective: To retrospectively analyze and discuss the characteristics of the pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of esophageal fistula after anterior cervical surgery. Methods: A retrospective analysis of the clinical data of 5 patients complicated with esophageal fistula after anterior cervical surgery in our hospital from January 2003 to December 2018 was performed. Results: Of the 5 patients, 3 died of severe pulmonary infection and sepsis after conservative treatment, and 2 patients healed after surgery performed for debridement and internal fixator removal. Conclusion: Esophageal fistula after anterior cervical spine surgery is a rare and serious complication with a high mortality rate. Surgical debridement and removal of the internal fixator accompanied by other active treatment measures can achieve good curative effects and significantly improve the outcomes of patients.