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Ankylosing spondylitis - chalk stick fracture

Case contributed by Frank Gaillard
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Fall. Pain.

Patient Data

Age: Adult
Gender: Male

Single sagittal image of the lumbar spine demonstrates a fracture extending from the anterior disc margin, through the inferior body of L1 and through the posterior elements. Note extensive syndesmophytic fusion of the discs spaces and posterior elements consistent with ankylosing spondylitis. 

Post operative images demonstrate extensive fixation with pedicle screws and connecting rods.

Case Discussion

Patients with ankylosing spondylitis are prone to chalk stick fractures, often through the ossified disc. 

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