J Korean Soc Spine Surg.  2007 Sep;14(3):197-200. 10.4184/jkss.2007.14.3.197.

Dens Fracture-Nonunion in Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Case Report

• Cho WJ
• Chae JW
• Ryu JS
• Park JC
• Chang H

• KMID: 1941653
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4184/jkss.2007.14.3.197

Abstract

Patients with ankylosing spondylitis are susceptible to fractures, which usually occur in the cervical spine. However, upper spinal fractures, particularly dens fracture-nonunion complicating ankylosing spondylitis, are quite rare. We encountered one such case. The patient was treated with posterior fusion followed by a halovest, which resulted in good conditions.

MeSH Terms

Humans
Spinal Fractures
Spine
Spondylitis, Ankylosing*

Figure

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  Fig. 1. Preoperative flexion and extension lateral x-ray shows the fracture of dens that is reduced on the position of flexion with ankylosed whole cervical spine.

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  Fig. 2. Preoperative CT definitely shows the fracture of dens at the level of the base.

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  Fig. 3. MRI shows the compressed spinal cord between the fractured dens and the posterior ring of the axis.

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  Fig. 4. Final follow up x-ray shows the well-fused C0-2 level.

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