What Researchers Did
Researchers reported three cases of cervical spine osteoradionecrosis following radiotherapy for primary head and neck malignancies, detailing their operative and nonoperative management.
What They Found
Two patients with severe spinal deformity and cord compression, who underwent surgical reconstruction with a vascularized fibular graft and instrumentation followed by hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy, achieved fusion, restored spinal stability, and resolved neurological dysfunction at 2- and 4-year follow-ups. The third patient, who experienced pain and dysphagia without instability or neurological deficits, improved with HBO therapy alone.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
For Canadian patients experiencing cervical spine osteoradionecrosis after head and neck cancer treatment, surgical reconstruction combined with hyperbaric oxygen therapy may restore stability and neurological function. In less severe cases without instability or neurological deficits, hyperbaric oxygen therapy alone might be a viable option to alleviate symptoms.
Canadian Relevance
This case report does not have a direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
As a case report involving only three patients, the findings have limited generalizability to a broader patient population.