Spine Fractures in Ankylosing Diseases: Recommendations of the Spine Section of the German Society for Orthopaedics and Trauma (DGOU)

Study Design: Review of literature and case series. Objectives: Update and review of current treatment concepts for spine fractures in patients with ankylosing spinal disorders. Methods: Case presentation and description of a diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm for unstable spinal injuries with an underlying ankylosing spinal disorder (ASD) of the cervical and thoracolumbar spine. Results: Nondisplaced fractures can be missed easily using conventional X-rays. Thus, computed tomography (CT) scans are recommended for all trauma patients with ASD. In doubt or presence of any neurologic involvement additional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans should be obtained. Spine precautions should be maintained all times and until definitive treatment (< 24 h). Nonoperative fracture treatment is not recommended given the mechanical instability of the most commonly seen fracture patterns (AOSpine B-and C-type, M2) in patients with ASD and inherent high risk of secondary neurologic deterioration. For patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) or diffuse idiopathic hyperostosis (DISH) sustaining cervical spine fractures, a combined anterior-posterior instrumentation for fracture fixation is recommended. Closed reduction and patient positioning can be challenging in presence of preexisting kyphotic deformities. In the thoracolumbar (TL) spine, a posterior instrumentation extending 2 to 3 levels above and below the fracture level is recommended to maintain adequate reduction and stability until fracture healing. Minimally invasive percutaneous pedicle screws and cement augmentation can help to minimize the surgical trauma and strengthen the construct stability in patients with diminished minor bone quality (osteopenia, osteoporosis). Conclusions: Current concepts, treatment options, and recommendations of the German Orthopedic Trauma Society-Spine Section for spinal fractures in the ankylosed spine have been outlined.