Cauda Equina Syndrome due to Lumbar Ossification of the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament: A Case Report

ABSTRACT

STUDY DESIGN: A case report. OBJECTIVES: To report a rare case of cauda equina syndrome due to lumbar ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL). SUMMARY OF LITERATURE REVIEW Lumbar OPLL with neurologic symptoms is very rare. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 49-year-old female had experienced weakness in both lower extremities and radiating pain for 1 day prior to presentation. Simple radiography and CT showed OPLL at the L1-L2 level. We performed a total laminectomy and posterolateral fusion at the L1-L2 level using a posterior approach. RESULTS: After treatment, the patient showed improvement of symptoms and is currently living without discomfort. CONCLUSIONS: Cauda equina syndrome due to lumbar OPLL is rare; however, rapid neurologic recovery can be achieved through early diagnosis and surgery.