Delayed Anterior Cervical Screw Migration Causing Swallowing Difficulty

Cervical disc disease is a common pathology that may require surgical intervention. A common surgical intervention for cervical disc disease is anterior discectomy and fusion. A number of complications are associated with this technique, including hoarseness, dysphagia, pseudoarthrosis, adjacent segment disease, and hardware failure. Here, we present a case detailing a unique complication of delayed migration of an anterior cervical screw which resulted in swallowing difficulties. Subsequently, we discuss the related reports and highlight the literature on the topic. We conclude with a brief discussion on the principle of patient autonomy.