Multiple Spinal Fractures in Ankylosing Spondylitis

Abstract

Patients with ankylosing spondylitis ae predisposed to spinal trauma and cord injury more than the normal population. In these patients the mid-cervical spine is the most frequent site of fracture. Simultaneous multiple spine fractures have been reported in the literature sporadically. Here we present a 40 year old male with ankylosing spondylitis who had simultaneous cervical and thoracic fracture-dislocation. As fractures in these patients occur after trivial trauma, preventive measures should be instructed to the patients. The spine in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is at high risk for the development of fractures, even after trivial trauma (1). The mid-cervical spine is the most frequent site of the fracture, followed by the thoracic spine (2). Following more significant trauma multiple spine fracture may occur. Here we present a case of simultaneous traumatic cervical and thoracic fractures in a patient with AS and review of the literature.