[Spinal fractures in ankylosing spondylitis]

Abstract

In the final stage of ankylosing spondylitis the spine will be completely fixed. With loss of mobility the patients suffering of ankylosing spondylitis are susceptible to spinal fractures. Predominantly the fractures occur in the lower part of the cervical spine, caused often by minor trauma. High fatality is at a 30% rate seen as severe consequence of these fractures. Conservative and operative treatment may be used. Severe fracture dislocation and progressive neurological deficiencies are recommended to be stabilized operatively. To avoid trauma of the spine in patients with ankylosing spondylitis preventive measures seem to be possible and should be employed.