[The rheumatic cervical spine]. / Die rheumatische Halswirbelsäule.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The cervical spine is one of the main sites of manifestation in rheumatoid arthritis outside of the extremities. It can have a decisive influence on disease course via the occurrence of mechanical instabilities as well as neurologic symptoms. Both adequate diagnosis and the corresponding surgical treatment represent a challenge for the involved physicians. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This review presents relevant diagnostic strategies and possibilities for surgical intervention which aim to avoid potentially fatal neurologic symptoms. Basic literature and expert opinions are also discussed. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Through target-oriented surgical management, as well as tight clinical and radiologic monitoring during conservative and surgical therapy, potentially fatal disease courses can be avoided.