Anterior Decompression and Fusion for the Treatment of Cervical Myelopathy Caused by Ossification of the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Occasionally, ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) causes cord compression, resulting in cervical myelopathy. OPLL differs from other causes of cervical spondylotic myelopathy in several ways, and the surgical strategy should be chosen with OPLL’s characteristics in mind. Although both the anterior and posterior approaches are effective surgical methods for the treatment of OPLL cervical myelopathy, they each have their own set of benefits and drawbacks. Anterior decompression and fusion (ADF) may improve neurological recovery, restore lordosis, and prevent OPLL mass progression. The benefits can be seen in patients with a high canal occupying ratio or kyphotic alignment. We discussed the benefits, limitations, indications, and surgical techniques of ADF for the treatment of OPLL-induced cervical myelopathy in this narrative.

Keywords

• ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament
• anterior decompression and fusion
• anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion
• anterior cervical discectomy and fusion
• vertebral body sliding osteotomy