Delayed Esophageal Perforation Diagnosed 12 Years After Anterior Cervical Diskectomy and Fusion: A Case Report and Review of Current Literature.

Esophageal perforation associated with anterior cervical diskectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a rare but serious complication. ACDF-related esophageal perforations can be acute or delayed. Delayed perforations more than 10 years after ACDF are exceedingly rare. Here, a delayed esophageal perforation discovered 12 years after a three-level ACDF is presented. This case highlights two main points. First, all diverticula after an ACDF warrant close clinical monitoring. Second, routine follow-up should be performed for patients with screw pullout to assist in early diagnosis of delayed esophageal perforation.