Presentation
Fall. Pain.
Patient Data
Age: Adult
Gender: Male
From the case:
Ankylosing spondylitis - chalk stick fracture
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Info
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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.
From the case:
Ankylosing spondylitis - chalk stick fracture
Download
Info

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.