Hypertrophic cervical osteophytes causing dysphagia

Abstract
Problems associated with osteophytes of the spine are frequently called to the attention of the neurosurgeon. Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (Forestier''s disease) is a common disorder of the spine; a small but important number of these patients present with spondylitic dysphagia. Anterior cervical decompression restores esophageal function. A patient with Forestier''s disease is reported, and Forestier''s disease is compared and contrasted to other spine disorders.