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Traumatic spinal cord injury complicating ankylosing spondylitis
N Ticó1, S Ramon, F Garcia-Ortun
1Spinal Injury Unit, Traumatology and Rehabilitation University Hospital, Ciutat Sanitària Universitària Vall d'Hebron, Spain.
Spinal Cord
|May 28, 1998
Summary
Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is rare, often resulting from hyperextension injuries in middle-aged men. Respiratory complications are a significant cause of mortality in these cases.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Neurology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the spine.
- Patients with AS have altered spinal biomechanics, increasing susceptibility to injury.
- Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) in this population presents unique challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the incidence and characteristics of traumatic SCI in patients with long-standing AS.
- To identify common injury mechanisms and outcomes in this specific patient group.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of patients with traumatic SCI admitted between January 1984 and February 1996.
- Analysis of patient demographics, injury etiology, fracture patterns, neurological status, and complications.
Main Results:
- Incidence of traumatic SCI in AS patients was 2% (15 out of 893).
- Mean age was 56 years; all patients were male.
- Motor vehicle accidents and hyperextension mechanisms were the most frequent causes.
- Cervical spine fractures were common; respiratory complications led to mortality in 6 patients.
- Most patients (14/15) received conservative treatment.
Conclusions:
- Traumatic SCI in AS patients is uncommon but severe.
- Hyperextension injuries, particularly in the cervical spine, are characteristic.
- Multidisciplinary management in specialized units is crucial for optimal outcomes.