Spine & Arthritis · NEET PG Preparation Orthopaedics
A 28-year-old male with ankylosing spondylitis of 15 years duration experiences a sudden increase in severe cervical pain after a low-energy minor fa…
Practice question from Spine & Arthritis (NEET PG Preparation Orthopaedics), with the correct answer and a step-by-step solution.
hard · MCQ · Q-A41BF0
A 28-year-old male with ankylosing spondylitis of 15 years duration experiences a sudden increase in severe cervical pain after a low-energy minor fall from a standing height. Radiographs demonstrate a complete transverse fracture running through the ossified anterior and posterior elements of the C6 vertebra. Which of the following best describes the structural mechanical vulnerability in these patients?
- A.The spine acts like a long, rigid, osteoporotic bone lever arm prone to brittle fracture.Correct answer
- B.Ligamentous laxity allows excessive translation without bony injury.
- C.Hypertrophy of the ligamentum flavum buffers all impact forces.
- D.Micro-fractures of the sacroiliac joint protect the cervical spine from high stresses.
Solution
In long-standing ankylosing spondylitis, the spine undergoes extensive syndesmophyte formation and fusion (bamboo spine), transforming it into a rigid, brittle lever arm. Minor trauma can cause unstable, highly displaced fractures similar to breaking a long bone.
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