HASUNSESANG HOSPITAL

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+82-31-783-9623

+82-10-2783-6676

C-spine

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C-spine BARUNSESANG HOSPITAL

Ossification of the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament (OPLL)

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.
Cause
The cause of OPLL is unclear, but it is thought to be genetic. There is a 1~3% higher presence in the East Asian countries, such as Korea and Japan.
Symptoms
Most patients with OPLL are asymptomatic with no symptoms at all, but others may experience mild pain and numbness in the arms and/or legs to complete numbness in the extremities. These symptoms may worsen and you may find it difficult to complete activities that require precision such as write/draw, or use chopsticks. You may also experience difficulty walking and feel as though you are walking on clouds. Sometimes with external trauma or hyperextension of the cervical spine, the condition may suddenly worsen and result in quadriplegia.
Treatment

Surgery is recommended if condition is severe or does not respond to conservative treatment methods. Surgery aims to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and prevent future damage and loss of neurological function.

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