Hypertrophic cervical osteophytes causing dysphagia. A review.

Problems associated with osteophytes of the spine are frequently called to the attention of the neurosurgeon. Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (Forestier's disease) is a common disorder of the spine; a small but important number of these patients present with spondylitic dysphagia. Anterior cervical decompression restores esophageal function. A patient with Forestier's disease is reported, and Forestier's disease is compared and contrasted with other disorders of the spine.