[Columnotomy in ankylosing spondylitis].

Depending on its severity the fixed flexion deformity of the spine in patients with ankylosing spondylitis leads to significant disturbance in the activity of daily living. The surgical correction of such a deformity requires a special knowledge in the context of spinal surgery. Meticulous surgical procedures were especially developed for this kind of spinal deformity. Considering the rate of complications it is necessary to select carefully the patients undergoing these procedures. The surgeon must be familiar in handling these patients and these special surgical procedures.