Detection of pharyngeal perforation during fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing in a person with cervical spinal cord injury in the intensive care unit: a case report

Endotracheal tube insertion and mechanical ventilation are indicated in spinal cord injury patients; however, dysphagia can occur after extubation. The resultant complications of may increase the length hospital stay mortality. Therefore, should be evaluated This case report introduces a rare finding pharyngeal perforation during fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation swallowing (FEES) patients with cervical spine injuries intensive care unit. A 71-year-old male patient met road traffic accident. underwent C3–4 posterior fusion anterior discectomy fusion. After successful extubation, FEES to assess function. During FEES, metallic plate was found exposed through mucosal erosion, swelling observed at surgical site hypopharynx. nasogastric removed prevent secondary damage infection operation received conservative therapy. endoscope machine is portable so it easily applied bedside unit patients. In addition, allows identification anatomical abnormalities oropharynx vocal cord. Thus, recommended do check as well