Anterior decompression and fusion for ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament of the thoracic spine: Procedure and clinical outcomes of transthoracic and transsternal approaches

Abstract

Introduction Progressive myelopathy caused by ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) of the thoracic spine has a poor prognosis, and early diagnosis and surgical treatment are necessary [1-4]. The clinical outcomes of posterior decompression have been reported to be poor, and anterior decompression is thought to be reasonable for surgical treatment of this disease [1-6]. The range over which spinal compression exists often shows multilevel involvement, and extensive anterior decompression is often required. In our department, the anterior procedure via the transthoracic or transsternal approach is used to accomplish safe and signifi cant anterior decompression. Surgical treatment is indicated for cases of progressive myelopathy due to thoracic OPLL. The anterior compression of the spinal cord may be observed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), myelography, and computed tomography (CT) myelography. © Springer 2006.