Asian Spine J.  2015 Aug;9(4):629-635. 10.4184/asj.2015.9.4.629.

Compression Fractures in the Setting of Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis

• Silva AM
• Tan SS
• Makaranda
• Chen JL

• KMID: 2169339
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4184/asj.2015.9.4.629

Abstract

Compression fractures are the most common vertebral fractures. They involve the anterior column of the spine, and are considered stable fractures due to the presence of intact posterior ligaments that aid in resisting further collapse and deformity. They are thus often managed conservatively. We describe a series of 3 cases that were initially diagnosed as compression fractures and managed conservatively. With the abundance of compression fractures and increase in preference for conservative management of compression fractures, it is of utmost importance to recognize the possibility of other spinal co-pathologies, especially that of hyperostosis of the spine, both by clinical judgment as well as radiological analysis before embarking on conservative management, should there be under-treatment and development of complications that could have otherwise been avoided, as in the cases presented in this series.

Keyword

Compression fractures; Spinal; Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis; Roentgenography

MeSH Terms

Congenital Abnormalities
Fractures, Compression*
Hyperostosis
Hyperostosis, Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal*
Judgment
Ligaments
Radiography
Spine