Posterior hypopharyngeal perforation following two-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion: illustrative case

Early hypopharyngeal perforation following ACDF may present subtly. High clinical suspicion, even in the absence of early imaging findings, is essential. Contained injuries without systemic deterioration may be successfully treated with conservative therapy, including nutritional support and imaging-guided follow-up. This case underscores the importance of vigilance and individualized management. https://thejns.org/doi/10.3171/CASE25513.