Features of the neurological clinic, diagnosis and results of surgical treatment of ossifying ligamentosis of the cervical spine (Forestier’s disease)

Forestier's disease is a rare degenerative-dystrophic disease of the spine and surrounding prevertebral tissues, manifested by secondary dysphagia against the background of significant ossification of the anterior longitudinal ligament in the cervical spine. Objective: to analyze the clinical course of Forestier's disease, diagnostic errors and the results of surgical treatment in order to improve patient outcomes. Material and methods. From 2010 to 2020, 5 patients with a verified diagnosis of Forestier's disease were treated, who underwent surgical intervention in the scope of ventral osteophytectomy Previously, patients were examined to exclude other causes of dysphagia. Results. All patients (100%) had swallowing disorders, movement restriction, and cervical pain syndrome. The average duration of swallowing disorders was 2.8±0.7 years. In the postoperative period, swallowing disorder was resolved in all patients, postoperative complications and recurrence of dysphagia were not observed. Conclusion. In a number of clinical cases, the diagnosis is delayed due to difficulties in diagnosing dysphagia and clinical interpretation of symptoms. In clinical and instrumental diagnostics, radiography of the cervical spine and a contrast study of the esophagus with barium play a leading role. Surgical correction by ventral osteophytectomy is an effective, low-traumatic and reliable method of radical treatment.