Role of Corticosteroids in Reducing Dysphagia after Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion

Authors

Priscila F. Marques, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Neurosurgery

Advisor

Dr. Elyse Watkins

Abstract

Dysphagia continues to be the most common postoperative complaint for patients who undergo anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF).¹ Treatment modalities for dysphagia currently include systemic or local corticosteroid use, use of anti-inflammatory agents, decreasing cuff pressure intraoperatively, and use of speech therapy postoperatively.² Evidence has noted that corticosteroid use is beneficial after ACDF in decreasing the incidence of postoperative dysphagia, reducing duration of hospital stay and decreasing pain.¹ Intraoperative use of local corticosteroids or intravenous corticosteroids in the perioperative period is a plausible treatment modality to decrease prevertebral soft tissue swelling (PSTS) and subsequent dysphagia.¹

Recommended Citation

Marques PF. Role of Corticosteroids in Reducing Dysphagia after Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2019; 1(3).