OSSIFICATION OF THE LIGAMENTUM-FLAVUM CAUSING THORACIC MYELOPATHY - ACASE-REPORT

Ossification of the ligamentum flavum is a well reported clinicopathol ogic entity causing narrowing of the spinal canal and subsequent spina l cord compression. The patient described in this case report complain ed of 9 mo of middle and lower back pain, difficulty with balance, pro gressive gait disturbance, and recent onset of bladder retention. Magn etic resonance imaging and computed tomographic scan revealed a bone d ensity mass at the T2-3 level causing 25% cord compression and edema. A decompressive laminectomy was performed at T-2. The etiology of the compression was found to be attributable to an ossified ligamentum fla vum at the T-2 level, which was confirmed by histologic examination. H is neurologic signs and symptoms and functional status markedly improv ed after surgery and subsequent comprehensive rehabilitation. The pati ent was able to ambulate independently with a walker as opposed to pre viously being wheelchair-bound, Prompt surgical intervention and appro priate rehabilitation management play a key role in improving the func tional outcome of myelopathy caused by ossified ligamentum flavum. Thi s article acquaints rehabilitation personnel with the clinical feature s, proposed etiologies, association with other diseases, work-up, trea tment, and rehabilitation concerns of patients with myelopathy caused by ossified ligamentum flavum.