Ossification of Transverse Ligament of Atlas Causing Cervical Myelopathy: A Case Report
Author Information
Author(s): Sasaji Tatsuro, Kawahara Chikashi, Matsumoto Fujio
Primary Institution: Tohoku Rosai Hospital
Hypothesis
The ossification of the transverse ligament of the atlas (TLA) may be caused by a combination of factors including hypertrophied dens and coalition of atlantooccipital joints.
Conclusion
The patient showed significant improvement in symptoms after posterior decompression surgery for cervical myelopathy caused by ossification of the TLA.
Supporting Evidence
- The patient experienced numbness and clumsiness in both upper limbs and gait disturbance for six months before presentation.
- Dynamic lateral plain radiographs showed irreducible atlantoaxial subluxation.
- Postoperative follow-up showed no deterioration of atlantoaxial subluxation.
Takeaway
A 76-year-old woman had a problem with her neck that made her arms feel numb and made it hard to walk. After a special surgery, she felt much better and could live normally again.
Methodology
The patient underwent posterior decompression surgery after being diagnosed with cervical myelopathy due to ossification of the TLA.
Limitations
The study is based on a single case report, limiting generalizability.
Participant Demographics
76-year-old female.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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