Cervical wound dehiscence following internal fixation of the cervical and thoracic spine: a report of three cases

This case report discusses novel complications of wound dehiscence in three patients who were treated with spinous process ostectomies after posterior cervical surgeries. The purpose of this case report is to document cases of postoperative cervical wound dehiscence and to share outcomes of spinous process resections and skin approximation for management of this complication. This information is valuable as treatment strategies and research into cervical wound dehiscence are limited to a single case report.

• 1
  Prominent spinous process at the level of a previous posterior cervical incision is a sign of internal cervical wound dehiscence.
• 2
  Cervical wound dehiscence can be safely managed with spinous process resection and approximation of the skin.
• 3
  This case series presents successful management strategies for this clinical complication to help aid in the future management of patients.