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An unusual complication of Cloward's procedure presenting to the otolaryngologist

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 June 2007

Salil B. Nair*
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology, North Riding Infirmary, Middlesbrough, UK
Liam M. Flood
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology, North Riding Infirmary, Middlesbrough, UK
Fred Nath
Affiliation:
Department of Neurosurgery, Middlesbrough General Hospital, Middlesbrough, UK
*
Address for correspondence: Mr S. B. Nair, F.R.C.S., Department of Otolaryngology, North Riding Infirmary, Newport Road, Middlesbrough TS1 5JE

Abstract

We present the case of a 51-year-old lady who developed a CSF leak following a Cloward's procedure (anterior cervical surgery with fusion), which settled with conservative management. Two months following the surgery she was assessed by an otolaryngologist for persistent dysphagia and a swelling in the anterior triangle of her neck. A computed tomography (CT) scan identified a fluid-filled mass displacing the trachea and communicating with the anterior cervical vertebrae, thus confirming th e persistence of a CSF leak.

Type
Clinical Records
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 1998

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