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Osteophytes causing Dysphasia and risk of Aspiration
Hello,
I am a white male, age 59, currently living in Central Florida. Over the past 5 months I have developed dysphasia, neck pain, a feeling of swollen throat and at risk of aspiration (per barium swallow test report). Thus far I have been treated by or consulted with: chiropractor, 2 Orthopedic Spine Specialists, Gastroenterologist and ENT. I have had x-rays, MRI of my cervical spine, upper endoscopy with dilation as well a barium swallow test. Barium swallow test report shows dysphagia and risk of aspiration due to anterior osteophytes impinging on upper esophagus. Speech Pathologist who conducted barium swallow test recommended consultation with surgeon in addition to modified diet/chewing/eating habits.
Both Orthopedic Specialists were not aware of how to treat this condition as it is rare. They suggested I seek out a specialist who is familiar with this condition but they were unable to refer me to anyone.
I am asking what type of specialist would I consult? Would you be able to refer me to someone or facility familiar in treating this in the State of Florida?
I would greatly appreciate your response with any input as to who I would consult for treatment.
Respectfully,
Richpic35
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Hi @richpic35, should you wish to request an appointment at Mayo Clinic, there is a location in Jacksonville, Florida. I might suggest starting wit orthopedic surgery. The coordinator can help. Here's how to get started: http://mayocl.in/1mtmR63
You may also be interested in this related discussion:
- Anyone else find out they have a bone spur in their spine? https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/anyone-else-find-out-they-have-a-bone-spur-in-their-spine/
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1 Reaction@richpic35, I also found this:
- Cervical osteophytes and dysphagia https://www.melbswallow.com.au/resources/cervical-osteophytes-and-dysphagia/
- Symptomatic Anterior Cervical Osteophyte Causing Dysphagia: Case Report, Imaging, and Review of the Literature https://www.cureus.com/articles/4144-symptomatic-anterior-cervical-osteophyte-causing-dysphagia-case-report-imaging-and-review-of-the-literature#!/
You've probably seen these resources already as you sound like someone who has done their research.
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2 ReactionsMy husband has a large osteophyte( and others) that is causing choking and swallowing problems. Surgery has been recommended after trying numerous throat stretchings and Gerd medications. We are investigating surgical alternatives but know this is rare and risky. Does anyone have any experience with this ? Are there Surgeons that specialize in this? We live in the Boston area.
John Hopkins is right in your neighborhood. What more could you ask for!?
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1 ReactionI would have one of your physicians request a referral to the appropriate treatment Team to Jon Hopkiins University. There are soo many Medical Centers in that area to select from. Research the physician and request the referral. I would certainly make sure the physician has had a significant amount of training and experience.
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1 ReactionPossibly a neurosurgeon, and research specialist who treat this.
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