Risk of vocal cord paralysis with C spine surgery

Posted By Tricia on November 24, 1998 at 09:50:30:







I have had an opinion on removal of my broken AO titanium plate.  Inserted to C4-5 C5-6 in 1994, with cowbone graft implant.  The broken portion of the plate tilts into the oesophagus (barium swallow) .   A significant amount of scar tissue is seen on X-ray around this plate.  Removal was described (Orthopaedic Surgeon) as possible, but not easy due to scar tissue.   The risk of vocal cord paralysis was raised as a major risk.   I was told that the scar tissue would adhere to the vocal cords, making it difficult to define or determine the these cords.   I feel extremely uneasy in accepting this surgery with this risk attached.   I know I can hang - out a little longer before deciding on this.   My recent X-ray does indicate shortening to the fused area.  Collapsing of the fused area due to plate movement.  The top section of the plate has moved down & with time will push the distal end of the plate further into the oesophagus.   The Ortho Surgeon feels the scar tissue will protect from oesophageal perforation.    Do you see the risk of vocal cord paralysis ( in my case) significant enough to deferr surgery.  I realise this is a difficult question without viewing radiographic film but would appreciate your
experienced opinion.    I do have lots of generalised neck,  shoulder/scapular pain...ache into (R) arm.  Also increasing (R) lumbar spine pain.   Many migraines, swallowing difficulty & throat soreness, but no weight loss.  I manage to eat normally but have had some choking incidents.    Thank you for any comment.