Cervical spine osteomyelitis with delayed onset tetraparesis after penetrating wounds of the neck. A report of 2 cases.

Two adult patients developed cervical vertebral osteomyelitis after earlier sustaining penetrating wounds of the neck. The initial injuries were not explored surgically. Both patients were subsequently shown to have perforation of the oesophagus. In the first case the perforation was overlooked, with a resultant oesophageal fistula, while in the second case the perforation was anticipated and a fistula prevented. Pre-operative investigation of such cases by oesophagogram and endoscopy, and careful surgical observation for a perforation can prevent the complications of an oesophageal fistula.