Cervical spine fracture in the setting of ankylosis

Case contributed by Heather Pascoe
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Presented with a fall, LOC, headstrike today. Now had another fall. Landed on forehead. Epistaxis.

Patient Data

Age: 80 years
Gender: Male

Acute fracture at C5/6. This extends through the anterior ankylosis at C5/6 and the superior corner of the C6 vertebral body. There is extension into the right transverse foramen and right C6 superior articular process. No retropulsed fragment. This occurs on a background of partial ankylosis from C2-T2.

Case Discussion

Severe fracture in a patient with multilevel ankylosis. CTA was recommended to assess the vertebral arteries given the extension to the transverse foramen. Such spinal trauma is often associated with ligamentous injuries and MRI scan was also advised for further assessment.

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