Osteoradionecrosis in Subaxial Cervical Spine - a Rare and Devastating Complication: A Case Report

Abstract

Osteoradionecrosis, a rare complication of radiation therapy, is a slow progression disease which affects the surrounding structures of spinal components. It essentially weakens the soft tissue and bony configuration and can cause nerve impingement or cord compression. We describe a patient who underwent radiotherapy for thyroid cancer and presented with cervical kyphosis with anterolisthesis of C3/C4 and C4/C5 some 32 years later. We explore the role of anterior and posterior fusion, as well as hyperbaric oxygen therapy in promoting healing.

Keywords

• osteoradionecrosis
• subaxial
• cervical
• spine
• hyperbaric oxygen therapy