Sternum-splitting anterior approach following posterior decompression and fusion in patients with massive ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament in the upper thoracic spine: report of 2 cases and literature review

[摘要] PurposeAnterior approach to the upper thoracic spine is difficult. It is important for spine surgeons to know the indication and the effect of anterior decompression for upper thoracic lesions and also to recognize the complications which are related to the approach with sternotomy. We present two patients for whom we took the sternum-splitting anterior approach for thoracic ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) following posterior decompression and fusion surgery; the clinical course and surgical outcome are discussed, with particular reference to complication avoidance and also we review the previous literature.

[学科分类] 骨科学

[关键词] Thoracic OPLL;Anterior approach;Sternotomy;Manubriotomy;Thoracic myelopathy