{"id":"4348aab1-4a3c-4ee3-b687-2d54bd15c239","slug":"recurrent-ossification-of-the-posterior-longitudinal-ligament-in-the-upper-thoracic-region-10-years-after-initial-decompression","title":"Recurrent ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament in the upper thoracic region 10 years after initial decompression","authors":["Naoki Segi","Kei Ando","Hiroaki Nakashima","Masaaki Machino","Sadayuki Ito","Hiroyuki Koshimizu","Hiroyuki Tomita","Shiro Imagama"],"abstract":"Background: Posterior decompression surgery consisting of laminoplasty is generally considered be the treatment of choice for upper thoracic OPLL. Here, we describe a patient who, 10 years following a C3–T4 level laminectomy, developed recurrent OPLL at the T2–3 level with kyphosis requiring a posterior fusion. Case Description: A 64-year-old male with CT documented OPLL at the C3–4, C6–7, and T1–4 levels, originally underwent a cervicothoracic laminectomy with good results. However, 10 years later, when T2–3 OPLL recurred along with kyphosis, he warranted an additional posterior fusion. Conclusion: Due to the long-term risks of developing kyphotic deformity/instability, more patients undergoing initial decompressive surgery alone for upper thoracic OPLL should be considered for primary fusions.","thumbnailUrl":"https://sni-digital-videos.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/4348aab1-4a3c-4ee3-b687-2d54bd15c239/featured/hero-1781561708641.png","publishDate":"2022-01-12T00:00:00.000Z","doi":"10.25259/SNI_1187_2021","categories":["Spine","Case Report"],"fullTextUrl":"https://surgicalneurologyint.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/11335/SNI-13-17.pdf"}