(A720) Impact of Cervical Osteophyte Level on Dysphagia-Related Symptom Severity

Introduction: This study aims to determine if osteophyte levels within the cervical spine influence the dysphagia-related symptoms experienced, complications, and the likelihood of requiring specialist intervention or surgical procedures. Current literature is limited, with most studies being case reports or case series which lack larger population analyses to clarify the broader clinical impact of osteophyte level on symptom severity and treatment outcomes.

Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted of patients diagnosed with anterior cervical osteophytes and dysphagia, collecting data on demographics, clinical presentation, imaging findings, and treatment details. Analysis focused on associations between osteophyte levels and characterizations of dysphagia symptoms and severity, progression, and treatment outcomes. All patients with secondary causes contributing to dysphagia, such as prior surgery, stroke or neurological disorder, or any suspected contributing pathologies were excluded.

Results: 34 patient charts with anterior cervical osteophytes causing dysphagia were analyzed. 16 patients had involvement at C6 or lower, Low Cervical Group, and 18 did not, High Cervical Group. Dysphonia was significantly more common in the High Cervical Group (p=0.037). Additionally, the High Cervical Group showed a trend toward a higher rate of procedural interventions, approaching statistical significance (63% vs. 22% in the Low Cervical Group, p=0.092).

Conclusions: Cervical osteophyte location appears to influence the severity and type of dysphagia-related symptoms, with higher cervical involvement associated with increased dysphonia and a trend toward more frequent procedural interventions. These findings highlight the potential need for tailored management strategies based on osteophyte level in dysphagia patients.