Clinical Investigation on Surgically Treated Ossification of the Posterior Ligament of the Cervical Spine

• Published in: Orthopedics & Traumatology Vol. 39; no. 1; pp. 259 - 263
• Main Authors: Naruo, Masakuni, Koyanagi, Eiichi, Urakado, Misao, Kajiura, Kiyosi, Kodama, Tarou, Sairyou, Kouichi
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: West-Japanese Society of Orthopedics & Traumatology 1990
• ISSN: 0037-1033; 1349-4333
• DOI: 10.5035/nishiseisai.39.259

66 cases of ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament of the cervical spine have been surgically treated for the past 12 years. Of these, 44 cases followed over 3 years were studied clinically, and 20 cases followed over 5 years after operation were roentgenologically investigated. The results were as follows: 1) According to the JOA Score, excellent and good cases accounted for 100% in the auterior approach (18 cases), 90.4% in the posterior approach (21 cases) and 60% in reoperated cases (5 cases). 2) Factors influencing postoperative results. In cases with duration of symptoms over 5 years, score under 6 points due to JOA, and narrow canal rate in antero-posterior diameter over 70%, postoperative results were mostly unsatisfactory. 3) Roentgenological investigation. Progression of ossification with aging was encountered in 25% at long axis and 5% at thickness.