ABSTRACT

Anterior cervical spine surgery has long been used as a standard procedure in the surgical treatment of spondylosis, disc herniations, spine tumors, deformities, traumas, ossified posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) and vascular diseases. Various procedures for this approach generally have satisfactory outcomes, and low and manageable complication rates. However, life-threatening conditions may occur. Also, as new procedures and technologies develop, new complications are encountered. All of these complications should be considered during surgical planning to avoid catastrophic events and for satisfactory results.