Kummell’s disease is a complicated spinal condition which remains controversial in the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, imaging and treatment options. Kummell' s disease may be the comprehensive effect of multiple factors. The most important clinical feature of this disease is delayed vertebral collapse occurring after the history of minimal trauma. The intravertebral vacuum cleft phenomenon is considered a radiographic sign of avascular osteonecrosis of the vertebral body and is highly suggestive of Kummell’s disease. Treatment options include nonsurgical and surgical treatment. This article reviews the progress of Kummell’s disease to provide guidance for diagnosis and treatment．