Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis
ICD-10 M48.1 · ICD-11 FA72.0

Treatment of Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis with Difficulty Swallowing or Airway Obstruction

When cervical DISH is severe and symptomatic, the extensive bone formation anterior to the vertebral bodies can displace the trachea and esophagus — producing dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) or airway obstruction. This presentation carries distinct management considerations.

Clinical scenario: Abundant anterior bone in the cervical spine displaces the trachea and esophagus, leading to dysphagia and airway obstruction. Surgical intervention may be required alongside or instead of conservative measures in this subset of patients.

Treatment approach

Conservative management — including analgesics and anti-inflammatory agents for pain control — forms part of the treatment strategy for symptomatic cervical DISH.

The complete protocol covers the full range of options, the role and indications for surgical intervention, and the structured decision pathway — available via the link below.

Instant Access to Structured Evidence-Based Regimens

References

As a result of the abundant bone located anterior to the vertebral bodies in the cervical spine, the trachea and esophagus can be displaced, leading to dysphagia and airway obstruction.

Surgical interventions might be required in cases of severe symptomatic cervical DISH and for unstable spinal fractures.

The treatment options for symptomatic cervical DISH are conservative or surgical.

Analgesics and NSAIDs can be used for pain from axial or peripheral manifestations of DISH.

DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2020.101527

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