Double spinal cord injury in a patient with ankylosing spondylitis


Akman M., Karataş M., AYAŞ Ş., Aǧildere M.

Spinal Cord, vol.37, no.4, pp.305-307, 1999 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 37 Issue: 4
  • Publication Date: 1999
  • Doi Number: 10.1038/sj.sc.3100754
  • Journal Name: Spinal Cord
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.305-307
  • Keywords: Ankylosing spondylitis, Spinal cord infarction, Spinal cord injury, Spinal fractures
  • Lokman Hekim University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Ankylosing spondylitis patients are more prone to spinal fractures and these fractures commonly result in mobile nonunion. We report a patient with a 30-year history of ankylosing spondylitis who sustained double spinal cord injuries following minor trauma. The first injury occurred at the lumbar level due to pseudoarthrosis of an old fracture, and the second at the thoracic level following cardiopulmonary arrest and an episode of hypotension. The possible mechanisms of the injuries are discussed and maintaining normal blood pressure in these patients is emphasized.