title: Approach-related complications after decompression for cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament.
abstract: The surgical management of compressive cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) can be challenging. Traditionally, approach indications for decompression of cervical spondylotic myelopathy have been used. However, the postoperative complication profile after cervical OPLL decompression is unique and may require an alternative approach paradigm. The authors review the literature on approach-related OPLL complications and suggest a management strategy for patients with single- or multiple-segment OPLL with or without greater than 50% canal stenosis.
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurosurgery, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, 251 East Huron Street, Chicago, IL 60611, USA. mtcardoso@comcast.net
authors.forename: Mario J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Cardoso
authors.forename: Tyler R
authors.initials: TR
authors.lastname: Koski
authors.forename: Aruna
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Ganju
authors.forename: John C
authors.initials: JC
authors.lastname: Liu
mesh_terms: D002574:Cervical Vertebrae / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D019299:Decompression, Surgical / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D017846:Longitudinal Ligaments / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D017887:Ossification of Posterior Longitudinal Ligament / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology; D016896:Treatment Outcome