An Unusual Case of Esophageal Perforation Following C5-C7 Anterior Cervical Corpectomy and Fusion Managed Surgically With Esophageal Repair and Long-Segment Cervical Fusion

Anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion (ACCF) is frequently the surgical management for myelopathy, radiculopathy, and cervical spine trauma. Although esophageal perforation is an uncommon complication, it remains a serious concern. This report details the case of a 50-year-old female who underwent a C6 corpectomy with C5-C7 ACCF due to degenerative pathology and subsequently developed an esophageal perforation that required revision surgery and surgical repair of the perforated esophagus. A comprehensive review for surgically managing esophageal perforation following cervical spine surgery is essential for intensivists to improve postoperative airway management strategies.