Cervical Fracture with Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis and Respiratory Insufficiency: A Case Report

Abstract

Case: Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) increases the risk of fracture due to low-energy trauma. We report the case of an 87-year-old man with a cervical fracture, DISH, and subsequent respiratory insufficiency and retropharyngeal arterial bleeding. Hemostasis was not achieved despite 10 coiling attempts. Arterial ligation, hematoma drainage, and C6/7 discectomy fusion were performed. The rupture of the ossified anterior longitudinal ligament was the most likely cause of the hemorrhage. The postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient was followed-up for 12 months.

Conclusion: In cases where bleeding cannot be controlled by coiling, surgical intervention can achieve a desirable patient outcome.