Spine
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In 1969 the authors started their prospective study to determine the natural history of atlanto-axial subluxation in patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Between January 1969 and July 1971 they accumulated 41 cases of atlanto-axial subluxation. These patients were studied clinically and radiologically, and the initial findings were published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, Volume 55B, August 1973. ⋯ The remaining 10 patients have died from unrelated causes. Only 3 patients underwent surgical stabilization. This study concluded that the atlanto-axial subluxation is compatible with life, but some patients require surgical intervention.