Successful management of a cervical fracture in a patient with ankylosing spondylitis by a posterior approach

Abstract

Patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) are at an increased risk of spinal fractures due to the altered spinal biomechanics. Moreover, it is difficult to treat these fractures due to the combination of ankylosis and osteoporosis. We report successful management of a C6-C7 vertebral fracture in a patient with AS. The patient improved in his neurological status and a good fusion was seen at a follow-up of 24 months.

Keywords

• Ankylosing spondylitis
• cervical fracture
• posterior approach