Esophageal Perforation Following Anterior Cervical Disc Fusion (ACDF)
When there is pain, tingling or numbness resulting from a cervical disc that is herniated or damaged from cervical degenerative disc disease, one option for treatment is anterior cervical disc fusion or ACDF. This surgery combines a cervical discectomy and vertebral fusion, with a surgical entry from the front or anterior position on the neck. One unintended complication that can occur is an esophageal perforation during surgery, which can be an indication of medical negligence during the procedure and cause for additional pain and treatments.
Cervical disc problems can cause excruciating pain, numbness and disability in the neck, shoulders, arms and hands. The pressure of a herniated or damaged cervical disc puts pressure on the spinal cord and one of the few options for permanent relief is ACDF surgery. While this procedure can be very beneficial, if the orthopedic surgeon or neurologist perforates the esophagus wall through miscalculation or negligence, it can cause complications and further trauma for the patient.
Injuries from Esophagus Perforation During ACDF
Esophageal perforation is a serious and life-threatening occurrence, although rare, from ACDF surgery. Due to the serious nature of this condition, surgeons should carefully avoid any possibility of creating weakness in this area. Patients most often have this condition occur directly after surgery. However, there are also cases where the perforation forms years after ACDF but is still considered to be a complication of the surgery. Esophageal perforation can cause infection, dysphagia, difficulty breathing, hypotension (low blood pressure) and death.
If you have encountered an esophageal perforation following anterior cervical disc fusion, it may be an indication of medical malpractice. Consult our team at Moriarty Injury LawyerConsult our team at Moriarty Injury Lawyer to discuss your case and whether you could pursue financial compensation for your injuries or a loss of a loved one due to this tragedy.