What is OPLL disease?
What is OPLL disease?
Spine Disorders Ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) is a condition in which a flexible structure known as the posterior longitudinal ligament becomes thicker and less flexible. The posterior longitudinal ligament connects and stabilizes the bones of the spinal column.
What causes ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament?
The exact cause of OPLL is unknown, but it typically occurs when the soft tissues on the spine calcify and narrow the spinal canal. This causes the compression on the nerves in the cervical spinal cord. Research has shown links to hereditary factors, the environment and an individual’s lifestyle.
What is OPLL surgery?
Ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) is a rare but potentially devastating cause of degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM). Decompressive surgery is the standard of care for OPLL and can be achieved through anterior, posterior, or combined approaches to the cervical spine.
Is OPLL genetic?
OPLL is a multi-factorial (polygenic) disease controlled by genetic and environmental factors.
What causes calcium buildup on your spine?
Small protrusions on an otherwise normal bone is called a bone spur. They can have a variety of different causes, but a typical one is friction between two bones rubbing together. This causes a build-up of calcium deposits, generated to help strengthen the bones against the friction to prevent damage.
What is the pathophysiology of OPLL?
OPLL is a multifactorial condition caused by ectopic hyperostosis and calcification of the posterior longitudinal ligament. Familial inheritance and genetic factors have been implicated in the etiology of OPLL. The cervical spine is most commonly affected followed by the thoracic spine.
What is opopll and how is it treated?
OPLL is a calcification of the soft tissues that connect the spinal bones which results in a narrowing of the spinal canal and compression of the cervical spinal cord.
What does OPLL stand for?
Ossification of Posterior Longitudinal Ligament (OPLL)
What is the prognosis of Thoracic epidural myelopathy (OPLL)?
Thoracic OPLL is rare, and symptoms of myelopathy are more severe than in cervical OPLL due to the narrow canal, rigidity of the thoracic spine, tenuous blood supply, and inability of the spinal cord to withstand much compression. Surgical intervention is usually indicated due to the severity of clinical presentation.
