[The rheumatic cervical spine].

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.