Related Experiment Videos
Ossification of the yellow ligament causing thoracic cord compression
F Maiuri1, G Iaconetta, A Gambardella
1Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, University Federico II, Naples, Italy.
Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery
|June 15, 2000
Summary
Ossification of the yellow ligament (OYL) is rare in the thoracic spine. Surgical decompression of OYL at T10-T11 significantly improved paraparesis and sensory dysfunction in a patient.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Spinal Pathology
Background:
- Ossification of the yellow ligament (OYL) is commonly observed in the cervical and lumbar spine.
- OYL in the thoracic spine is exceptionally rare, with fewer than 40 reported cases.
- This condition can lead to significant neurological deficits.
Observation:
- A 50-year-old male presented with progressive paraparesis and sensory dysfunction.
- Imaging studies, including computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), identified OYL at the T10-T11 level.
- The OYL was causing significant compression of the spinal canal.
Findings:
- Decompressive laminectomy and surgical removal of the ossified ligament were performed.
- Post-operative assessment revealed marked clinical improvement in the patient's neurological status.
- CT and MRI are effective diagnostic modalities for defining OYL.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for managing thoracic OYL.
- Surgical decompression, including posterior and lateral removal of the ligament, is recommended for optimal outcomes.
- This case highlights the importance of considering OYL in the differential diagnosis of thoracic myelopathy.