Ligamentum flavum hematoma in the lumbar spine

A patient with cervical ligamentum flavum haematoma: case report

INTRODUCTION

Ligamentum flavum haematoma (LFH) is an extremely rare entity, found mostly in the lumbar and thoracic ligamentum flavum and seldom in the cervical ligamentum flavum. Cervical LFH can cause paralysis in patients. We describe a case of LFH in the cervical spine that accepted surgical treatment.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 70-year-old man with incomplete spinal cord injury presented with sudden paralysis of his left limbs for 10 days and hemi-hypaesthesia below the level of the right clavicle. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a space-occupying lesion in the left ligamentum flavum between the C4 and C5 laminae. The preliminary diagnoses were concluded to be incomplete spinal cord injury, spinal epidural lesions, and cervical spinal stenosis. After a posterior C3-C6 laminectomy with lateral mass screw instrumentation, the muscle strength and sensation recovered partially. The lesion was greyish black and located in the ligamentum flavum. A pathological examination identified it as a haematoma of the ligamentum flavum. The patient was discharged 15 days after the operation and commenced rehabilitation.

DISCUSSION

The LFH was mainly caused by slight trauma during gentle activities and contributed by many factors. MRI is an essential tool but pathological diagnosis is the gold standard. Most LFH patients can be treated surgically.

Ligamentum flavum hematoma in the lumbar spine mimicking spinal tumor: A case report and review of the literature

Liagmentum flavum hematoma (LFH) is a rare cause of radiculopathy and low back pain, sharing similar symptomatology with disc herniation. It predominantly affects the lumbar thoracic spine. The underlying mechanism of LFH remains unclear; however, surgical removal of the hematoma has consistently demonstrated excellent outcomes. The objective of this case report is to emphasize the significance of diagnosing LFH. We present a surgically confirmed lumbar LFH case that mimicked a lumbar tumor, highlighting the challenges encountered during diagnosis and subsequent management.

Ligamentum Flavum Hematoma Accompanied by Intraspinal and Extraspinal Hematomas: A Case Report

Studies on ligamentum flavum hematoma (LFH) have been gradually increasing; however, no study has reported an LFH spreading to the intraspinal and extraspinal spaces. The purpose of this report is to discuss this rare condition and report that extraspinal hematoma can be formed by LFH. The authors present the case of a 78-year-old man presented with right L5 radiculopathy caused by a space-occupying lesion with intraspinal and extraspinal expansions at the L4-L5 vertebral levels demonstrated on MRI. We tentatively diagnosed these lesions as intraspinal and extraspinal hematomas originating from the ligamentum flavum based on the chronological changes seen on MRI and computed tomography-based needle biopsy. After the extirpation of these lesions, the symptoms were relieved. Three months later, the patient could walk without a cane. From the intraoperative findings and pathological examination, we concluded that the extraspinal hematoma in paravertebral muscle was caused by an LFH of unknown etiology. This case report describes the difficulty in diagnosing LFH accompanied by an extraspinal hematoma with wide-spreading expansion and highlights the usefulness of repetitive MRI over time in capturing chronological changes of the hematoma. As far as we know, this is the first study on an LFH accompanied by an extraspinal hematoma in the multifidus.

Ligamentum flavum hematoma following a traffic accident: A case report

BACKGROUND

Ligamentum flavum hematoma (LFH) can cause compression of the spinal cord or nerve root, which results in neurological symptoms. We report a case of lumbar radicular pain due to LFH following a traffic accident.

CASE SUMMARY

A 59-year-old man complained of left buttock and lateral thigh pain that was dull in nature after a traffic accident 18 d prior to presentation. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), taken 17 d after the traffic accident, revealed a mass lesion at the L4-5 Level. These MRI findings suggested subacute LFH. The patient’s pain was not alleviated with conservative treatment, including oral medication and epidural steroid injection. After a partial-hemilaminectomy and removal of LFH, the patient’s pain completely disappeared.

CONCLUSION

Because early operation for decompression is important for a good outcome, clinicians should be able to determine LFH from MRI results and be aware of the possibility of LFH, especially in patients with a history of trauma.

Histologic Observation and Significance of Sympathetic Nerve Fiber Distribution on Human Cervical Ligamentum Flavum

Objective

To study the distribution of sympathetic nerves of the ligamentum flavum (LF), confirm its existence by histological observation and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and analyze the relationship between sympathetic nerve fibers and the biomechanical structure of the LF.

Methods

Randomly controlled scientific research selected 15 cases of posterior surgery in the affiliated hospital of Qingdao University from January 2013 to December 2019. The average age was 67.5 ± 14.5 years old, eight males and seven females. The LF specimens (completely separated fresh tissue) of different segments (C_3‐7) were taken during the operation. Two pages of LF specimens on the left and right sides of the same segment are randomly allocated by the pairing method for formalin fixation and cryopreservation in liquid nitrogen. LF specimens extracted from seven other adult cadaver specimens (average age at death of about 56.8 ± 4.0 years, three males and four females) were used as a control group; together with formalin‐ fixed specimens obtained during surgery, 3D slices were given layer by layer. The distribution of sympathetic nerves in different parts of the LF was analyzed by glyoxylic acid‐induced biological monoamine fluorescent technique (SPG) and hematoxylin–eosin (HE) staining. Fifteen liquid nitrogen storage specimens were divided into the back of the LF and the spinal canal through frozen sections, and were analyzed by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy‐hydrogen spectrum (¹H ‐NMR) for neurotransmitters and neurometabolites.

Results

There were type C sympathetic nerve fibers in the LF, which were divided into linear shape (α) and wave shape (β). Experimental group (χ² = 1.705, P > 0.05) and control group (χ² = 0.879, P > 0.05) can detect no difference in fluorescence units. Nerve fiber transmitter metabolites choline (Cho), creator (Cr), γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) also indicate that the sympathetic nerve is present in the LF. LF sympathetic nerve fibers were mainly distributed in the proximal spinal canal surface, nerve fibers on the medial belt (area II) were fewer than the lateral belt (area I) (W = 210, P < 0.05). The ¹HNMR spectrum of LF spinal canal PG / Cho (t = 8.721, P < 0.05), GABA (t = 16.01, P < 0.05) value increased, lactic acid (Lac) / Cr (t = 4.213, P < 0.05), Cho / Cr (t = 2.402, P < 0.05) value decreased, indicating that nerve fibers are actively metabolized on the surface of the spinal canal, mainly distributed in tube surface. βtype fibers were more often distributed around microvessels. A small amount of α type fibers went next to the vascular structures, while α type fibers and β type fibers go cross within LF. Two patients with vertebral artery dissection had no recurrence of sympathetic symptoms within a total of 12 follow‐ups 2 years after discharge.

Conclusions

There are many sympathetic nerve fibers distributed on LF, and their distribution may be correlated with histological and mechanical characteristics of LF. It may also be the anatomical basis of cervical vertigo.

Surgical treatment of progressive cauda equina compression caused by spontaneous spinal subdural hematoma: A case report

RATIONALE

Spontaneous spinal subdural hematoma (SSDH) without an underlying pathology is a very rare condition. The treatment protocol for SSDH is early diagnosis and treatment before irreversible damage to neural tissue. However, there is no agreement on the etiopathogenesis, as well as the need for surgery to treat spontaneous SSDH. Here, we report a rare case of spontaneous SSDH with progressive deterioration and symptoms of cauda equina syndrome after ineffective conservative treatment.

PATIENT'S CONCERN

A 38-year-old male patient presented with sudden lower back and bilateral leg pain.

DIAGNOSIS

A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan on the third day after the onset of symptoms revealed a subdural hematoma from L1 to S1, presenting as hyperintensities on T1 weighted sequences and hypointensities to isointensities on T2 weighted sequences.

INTERVENTION

Laminectomy and subdural evacuation were performed immediately.

OUTCOMES

An abnormal ligamentum flavum was observed intraoperatively. A histological examination revealed extravasation of blood in the degenerated ligamentum flavum. Postoperatively, the lower limb pain improved immediately. At the 6-month follow-up, the pain and numbness of the lower limb disappeared, and the muscle strength of both legs recovered completely with normal gait.

LESSONS

Spontaneous SSDH with ligamentum flavum hematoma was caused by a sudden increase of intravenous pressure, resulting from a marked surge in the intra-abdominal or intrathoracic pressure. Consecutive MRI scans provided valuable information, leading to a diagnosis of spontaneous SSDH. The treatment protocol for spontaneous SSDH should be determined based on the location and stage of the hematoma, as well as the subject's neurological status.

A Succession of MRI Scans Supports the Diagnosis of Lumbar Ligamentum Flavum Hematoma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Ligamentum flavum hematoma (LFH) is a rare cause of spinal nerve compression. This condition remains challenging to diagnose using MRI due to the changing intensity of the hematoma on imaging. The aim of this study was to describe the patient with LFH who had a succession of MRI scans carried out. We report on a 71-year-old woman with a mass at L4/5 and decompression surgery was performed for her left leg symptom. She had MRI carried out in a previous hospital and also had MRI again in our hospital. In a 2^nd MRI of the same area, after a 2-week interval, a newly isointense mass was present within the anterior part of the previously identified lesion on T1-weighted image and the hyperintense area in the lesion was a little extended on T2-weighted imaging. Her symptoms were resolved immediately after decompression surgery. Following a review of previous cases, we suggest that consecutive MRI scanning may support the diagnostic process for LFH.

Ligamentum Flavum Hematoma Presented with Low Back Pain: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

A 61-year-old woman with no past medical history presented with low back pain and radicular pain in the right lower extremity. Magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar spine showed a heterogeneous intensity mass in the lateral recess of the spinal canal at the L4-5 disk level. Postoperatively, her radicular pain resolved within a few days with excellent low back pain relief. Ligamentum flavum hematoma is a rare differential diagnosis for cystic lesions in the lumbar spine that can be removed simply by surgery with excellent relief of symptoms and improvement in strength of the right lower extremity and increased sensitivity.

Ligamentum flavum hematomas: Why does it mostly occur in old Asian males? Interesting point of reported cases: Review and case report

Hematoma of the ligamentum flavum (LF) is a rare cause of neural compression and sciatica. Currently, the etiology and epidemiological characteristics of ligamentum flavum hematoma (LFH) are unknown and epidemiological investigations using rewieving of reported cases have not been performed. We report the case of a 63-year-old man with a LFH compressing the spinal canal at the left L2-L3 level, rewieved relevant literature. In Medline research, wefound a total of 50 reported cases with LFHs, and the interesting point of these cases were analyzed. Many of cases were old males. Interestingly, 39 of the 50 cases were reported from Asian countries. The ages of 42 patients could be verified. The youngest age was 45 years, oldest age was 81 years, and mean age was 66.07 years. Thirty-three out of these 42 patients (78.53%) were older than 60 years. An important aspect of the present review is to bring attention for occurrence in older Asian males. With an increasing number of elderly people in the general population, there is a need to investigate risk factors such as sexual gender, age, and geographic location for LFH.

The Mechanism of Ligamentum Flavum Hypertrophy: Introducing Angiogenesis as a Critical Link That Couples Mechanical Stress and Hypertrophy

BACKGROUND

Biochemical alterations associated with mechanical stress have been explored as an initiating step in the pathological progression of ligamentum flavum hypertrophy (LFH); however, this mechanism remains poorly understood. Recently, the inflammation induced after mechanical stress and the subsequent response of ligamentum flavum (LF) cells have been implicated in LFH pathology.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the hypothesis that angiogenesis may be a critical link between hypertrophy and a series of stimulating events, including mechanical stress.

METHODS

LF from 20 lumbar spinal canal stenosis (LSCS) patients and 16 non-LSCS patients (control group) were collected during surgery. Patient demographic and radiographic data were obtained. The levels of angiogenic factors (vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF], angiopoietin-1, vascular cell adhesion molecule, and basic fibroblast growth factor) in the LF were investigated by using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Angiogenesis was also quantified by immunohistochemical detection of CD34-positive capillaries. The correlations among clinical factors, including radiographic factors, angiogenic factors, and angiogenesis, were statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

The LSCS group was older and exhibited a longer symptom duration, wider segmental motion, and thicker LF than the control group. The LSCS group showed significantly higher tissue concentrations of VEGF (P < .001) that positively correlated with LF thickness (r = 0.557, P < .001) and segmental motion (r = 0.586, P < .001). The LSCS group showed significantly more CD34-positive capillaries than the control group (P = .004).

CONCLUSION

The LSCS group showed greater segmental motion, higher VEGF concentrations, and more CD34-positive capillaries than the control group. These data indicate that VEGF-mediated angiogenesis following mechanical stress may be a critical step within the series of pathological events in LFH.

Ligamentum flavum hematomas of the cervical and thoracic spine

OBJECTIVE

To report extremely rare cases of ligamentum flavum hematomas in the cervical and thoracic spine. Only six cases of thoracic ligamentum flavum hematomas and three cases of cervical ligamentum flavum hematomas have been reported so far.

METHODS

Two patients presented with tetraparesis and one patient presented with radicular pain and paresthesias in the T3 dermatome. MRI was performed in two patients, which showed a posterior intraspinal mass, continuous with the ligamentum flavum. The mass was moderately hypointense on T2-weighted images and hyperintense on T1-weighted images with no contrast enhancement. The third patient underwent cervical myelography because of a cardiac pacemaker. The myelography showed an intraspinal posterior mass with compression of the dural sac at C3/C4.

RESULTS

All patients underwent a hemilaminectomy to resect the ligamentum flavum hematoma and recovered completely afterwords, and did not experience a recurrence during follow-up of at least 2 years.

CONCLUSION

This case series shows rare cases of ligamentum flavum hematomas in the cervical and thoracic spine. Surgery achieved complete recovery of the preoperative symptoms in all patients within days.

Ligamentum flavum hematoma: a case report and literature review

The aim is to present a rare case of ligamentum flavum hematoma in the lumbar region, discuss its physiopathology and treatment and review the literature. A woman aged 68 presented with neurogenic claudication due to degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis that evolved into a sudden worsening with cauda equina syndrome. The magnetic resonance imagining (MRI) showed signs of degeneration of the lumbar spine, with a narrow spinal canal from L2 to S1, anterolisthesis L4 L5 and an expansive lesion hyperintense on T1-weighted and hypointense on T2-weighted images considered compatible with hematoma in the topography of the yellow ligament in L1-L2. The patient underwent laminectomy and lumbar fixation. Her evolution was good in the postoperative period and at 18 months of follow-up hse walked alone, despite the pain that is controlled with simple medications. Even though rare, it seems that ligamentum flavum hematoma has a relationship with the degeneration and rupture of small vessels associated with micro trauma to the spine. Its physiopathology is not well defined and treatment is similar to other spine compression processes.

A large retro-odontoid cystic mass caused by transverse ligament degeneration with atlantoaxial subluxation leading to granuloma formation and chronic recurrent microbleeding case report

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Noninfectious nontumorous retro-odontoid masses are rare, and masses have not been reported to extensively compress the spinal cord. We encountered a case of a large retro-odontoid lesion that extensively compressed the spinal cord.

CASE REPORT

A 76-year-old-man reported experiencing a sudden onset of neck pain, hand and foot paresthesia, dysarthria, and dysphagia. When symptoms had not eased by 10 days of treatment with external stabilization and bed rest, he was referred to our hospital. Dynamic radiographs of the cervical spine showed that the atlantodental interval widened from 2 mm on extension to 7 mm on flexion. Computed tomography did not reveal abnormality of the odontoid process or the presence of a high-density area that could suggest calcification in or near the cystic mass. Fluid-attenuated inversion recovery axial magnetic resonance image showed a mass that was 3.0-cm wide, 2.7-cm high, and 2.5-cm thick that severely compressed the lower brain stem. T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging showed that the mass contained a solid part posterior to the C2 dense area, extending rostrally, compatible with the presence of degenerated and hypertrophic ligaments. We performed surgical decompression of the lesion combined with atlantoaxial fixation. The partly cystic mass, which was located extradurally, had xanthochromic content, indicating microbleeding. Dysarthria and dysphagia immediately disappeared, and neurologic symptoms disappeared by 1 month. At 1-year follow-up, the patient remained symptom free, and computed tomography scans did not show recurrence of the mass. The pathologic diagnosis of degenerative ligament tissue with chronic recurrent microbleeding and associated granulation was made.

DISCUSSION

A possible explanation why the cyst grew to an exceptionally large size is that the transverse ligament of axis became degenerated and hypertrophic because of chronic mechanical stress by atlantoaxial subluxation. Then, a part of the ligament developed reactive granulation with small vessel formation. Finally, rupture of these small vessels caused repeated episodes of microbleeding, resulting in formation of a large cyst. The observation of degenerative ligament tissue, granulation formation, and microbleeding differentiated it from a synovial cyst or a ganglion cyst. The presence of hemosiderin deposits suggested chronic recurrent microbleeding. Taking all our findings together, we believe that our case of retro-odontoid cystic mass is different from the others that have been reported. Atlantoaxial instability may cause a large mass, such as we described here, so that careful observation is important.

Lumbar ligamentum flavum hematoma treated with endoscopy

Hematoma of the ligamentum flavum is a rare cause of neural compression, for which treatment has consisted of excising the hematoma via open surgical approaches, including total laminectomy or bilateral partial laminectomy. This article presents the first report of a microscope-assisted endoscopic decompression to resect a hematoma of the ligamentum flavum.A 52-year-old man presented with back and leg pain, as well as difficulty initiating micturation. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated an epidural mass at L5/S1 that was continuous with the facet joint. Visualization was obtained via an endoscope, and a reddish tan-brown solid mass was found beneath the ligamentum flavum. Thorough decompression of the cauda equine and nerve roots was undertaken. The patient's radicular leg pain and bladder function improved soon after the decompression. Histological examination of the ligamentum flavum revealed a consolidated hematoma with granulomatous change.A review of the English literature revealed 29 cases of hematoma in the lumbar ligamentum flavum. Surgical decompression in these patients was accomplished with a standard open approach through hemilaminectomy (n=11), total laminectomy (n=10), or laminectomy followed by posterior fixation (n=3). The literature review did not identify any case of hematoma of the lumbar ligamentum flavum that was treated endoscopically. We expect our case may expand the indications for the endoscope in spine surgery.

Epidural block-induced ligamentum flavum hematoma mimicking epidural hematoma in the lumbar spine: a case report

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

The ligamentum flavum may undergo various pathologic changes, including hypertrophy, calcification, ossification, and cyst formation. Ligamentum flavum hematoma (LFH) is a rare cause of spinal nerve root or cord compression and usually occurs in the lumbar spine. We report a 66-year-old woman with LFH occurring after an epidural block, mimicking epidural hematoma on lumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

PURPOSE

To document MRI findings of epidural block-induced LFH mimicking epidural hematoma.

STUDY DESIGN/SETTING

A case report.

METHODS

A 66-year-old woman presented with a 6-month history of pain in the left buttock and suffered abrupt weakness and numbness in her left leg after an epidural block procedure without any other trauma history. Lumbar spine MRI with enhancement showed a hematoma-like mass in the posterior epidural space at L3-L4 level.

RESULTS

The patient underwent a left hemilaminectomy at the L3 level, and a surgeon found a small hematoma between inner and outer walls of ligamentum flavum instead of an epidural hematoma and performed the removal of the hypertrophied ligamentum flavum including the intraligamentary lesion. Histopathologic examination confirmed the lesion as hematoma in the left ligamentum flavum. After surgery, the patient recovered without significant neurologic deficit.

CONCLUSIONS

Epidural block-induced LFH can mimic posterior epidural hematoma on MRI. Careful evaluation of hematoma, location, and imaging findings is required for accurate diagnosis.

Microsurgical excision of hematoma of the lumbar ligamentum flavum

Hematoma of the lumbar ligamentum flavum is a very rare cause of sciatica. A 72-year-old man presented with left-sided sciatica and paresthesia of the lateral aspect of his left foot. From CT and MRI findings, he was diagnosed as having a hematoma embedded in the ligamentum flavum, which compressed the dura mater at the L5/S1 disc level. After an adequate surgical field was obtained with a microscope and a Casper retractor, the hematoma of the ligamentum flavum could be excised via a unilateral approach and satisfactory decompression of the cauda equina and nerve roots were obtained.

Effect of ligamenta flava hypertrophy on lumbar disc herniation with contralateral symptoms and signs: a clinical and morphometric study

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to determine whether ligamentum flavum hypertrophy among disc herniated patients causes contralateral pain symptoms. For this reason we measured the thickness of the ligament in disc herniated patients with ipsilateral or contralateral symptoms.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Two hundred disc herniated patients with ipsilateral symptoms as group I were compared with five disc herniated patients with only contralateral symptoms as group II. Ligamenta flava thicknesses and spinal canal diameters of both groups were measured on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with a micro-caliper.

RESULTS

Both groups underwent surgery only on the disc herniated side. The total thicknesses of the ligamenta flava in group II was thicker than in group I. There was no spinal stenosis in either group and no significance difference between the groups. Statistically significant differences were found for both ipsilateral and contralateral thickness of the ligament flava in both groups. We also compared thickness of the ligamenta flava for each level of disc herniation in group I; ligamenta flava hypertrophy was more common at L3-L4 and L4-L5 levels of vertebrae in females.

CONCLUSIONS

Aetiology of contralateral sciatica among disc herniated patients may be related to hypertrophy of the ligamenta flava, especially on the opposite side. Surgical approaches of the disc herniated side alone may be sufficient for a good outcome.

Hematoma in the cervical ligamentum flavum. Report of a case and review of the literature

Hematoma of the cervical ligamentum flavum is very rare, and its pathogenesis is unknown. We describe a case of ligamentum flavum hematoma in the cervical spine causing severe myelopathy. Postoperative histological examination suggested it was the result of the rupture of a hemangioma or of an arteriovenous malformation in the ligamentum flavum. After removal of the lesion, the patient's condition immediately improved. Review of all three reported cases, including this one, showed that complete resection of the mass resulted in immediate relief of symptoms of incomplete paraplegia. The findings of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the hematoma may vary with time, and they may show no characteristic intensity. However, MRI of this case revealed that the tissues surrounding the mass were enhanced with gadolinium diethylene triamine penta-acetic acid, and an area of homogeneous iso-intensity was clearly surrounded by a low-intensity area (flavum) on T2-weighed short-tau inversion recovery images. These findings could be characteristic of the ligamentum flavum hematoma and might help in the differentiation from a cervical epidural hematoma.

Spinal cord compression by ligamentum flavum hematoma in the thoracic spine

STUDY DESIGN

Case report.

OBJECTIVE

To report an extremely rare case of hematoma derived from the ligamentum flavum within the thoracic spine.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Only one previous case has been reported of a hematoma derived from the ligamentum flavum in the thoracic spine. METHODS.: A 61-year-old man presented with gait disturbance and numbness below the navel. Magnetic resonance imaging on the 16th day after the onset of the symptoms showed spinal cord compression at the T10-T11 level caused by a round mass. This intraspinal, extradural space occupying lesion, continuous with ligamentum flavum was centrally hypointense and marginal hyperintense on a T1-weighted image and central heterogeneous and marginal hypointense on a T2-weighted image. The wall of the lesion was slightly enhanced after use of a contrast medium.

RESULTS

The patient underwent a T10 laminectomy and the mass was carefully resected from the dura mater. Histologic examination showed that the wall of the mass comprised fibrous connective tissue that contained elastic fibers derived from a degenerative ligamentum flavum tear. It also revealed that evidence of previous hemorrhagic events within the mass. There was no evidence of neoplastic nor synovial tissue. After surgery, the patient's numbness and gait disturbance disappeared.

CONCLUSION

This report identifies an extremely rare case of spinal cord compression by a hematoma from the ligamentum flavum within the thoracic spine.

Facet cyst haematoma in the lumbar spine: a report of four cases

We present 4 cases of facet cyst haematoma in the ligamentum flavum of the lumbar spine. All patients presented with a one-to-3-month history of back pain or numbness in the legs, and sudden neurological deterioration. One also developed cauda equina syndrome and another developed radiculopathy. In all cases, magnetic resonance imaging showed a mass with high signal intensity on both T1- and T2-weighted images. Facet arthrography and computed tomography revealed communication between the mass and the neighbouring facet joint. The haematomas were removed en bloc with the ligamentum flavum. They were surrounded by the ligament and contained degenerated and lacerated elastic fibres but no synovial lining cells. Facet cyst haematoma is so-named because of bleeding from tissue adjacent to the facet joint into a pre-existing facet cyst.

Spontaneous subdural hematoma of the thoracolumbar region with massive recurrent bleed

Spinal subdural hematoma is a rare disorder and can be caused by abnormalities of coagulation, blood dyscrasias, lumbar puncture, trauma, underlying neoplasm, and arteriovenous malformation. We discuss an unusual case of an elderly woman who presented with spontaneous spinal subdural hematoma and developed massive rebleeding on the third day following initial evacuation of hematoma. This case illustrates that a patient with routine normal coagulation profile and adequate hemostasis can still harbor platelet dysfunction (in present case due to polycythemia) and later on can manifest as rebleeding and neurological deterioration.

Spontaneous ligamentum flavum hematoma in the rigid thoracic spine : a case report and review of the literature

Ligamentum flavum hematoma is a rare condition. Twenty cases including present case have been reported in English-language literature. Among them, only one case reported in pure thoracic spine. A 72-year-old man presented with thoracic myelopathy without precedent cause. Magnetic resonance images revealed a posterior semicircular mass which was located in T7 and T8 level compressing the spinal cord dorsally. T7-8 total laminectomy and extirpation of the mass was performed. One month later following surgery, the patient fully recovered to normal state. Pathologic result was confirmed as ligamentum flavum hematoma. Ligamentum flavum hematoma of rigid thoracic spine is a very rare disease entity. Most reported cases were confined to mobile cervical and lumbar spine. Surgeons should be aware that there seems to be another different pathogenesis other than previously reported cases of mobile cervical and lumbar spine.

Foot drop of sudden onset caused by acute hematoma in the lumbar ligamentum flavum: a case report and review of the literature

STUDY DESIGN

A case report.

OBJECTIVE

To describe an unusual case of acute hematoma in the lumbar ligamentum flavum causing foot drop.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

There have been several reports of hematoma in the lumbar ligamentum flavum causing compression of the cauda equina and/or nerve root. However, the majority of these cases were chronic hematomas, based on clinical history and histologic findings.

METHODS

A 64-year-old man presented with right foot drop of sudden onset and severe sciatica. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on the 10th day after the onset of symptoms revealed spinal stenosis at L4/5 caused by a posterior mass that was isointense on T1-weighted images and hyperintense on T2-weighted images, but was hyperintense on T1-weighted images and hypointense on T2-weighted images 5 days later. Because of these neurologic findings, surgical exploration and excision of the intraspinal mass were performed on the 18th day after onset.

RESULTS

Surgical treatment was uneventful, and the severe sciatica improved immediately after surgical treatment. Histologic examination revealed recent extravasation of blood in the degenerated ligamentum flavum. These findings were supported by the 2 consecutive preoperative MRI examinations. At 1 year after surgery, manual muscle testing of the tibialis anterior on the affected side had recovered to grade 4.

CONCLUSION

Consecutive MRI examinations performed 5 days apart in the early stage after the onset of symptoms clearly demonstrated intensity change, indicating acute hematoma of ligamentum flavum as a cause of foot drop of sudden onset.

A ligamentum flavum hematoma presenting as an L5 radiculopathy

This study reports two patients with ligamentum flavum hematoma, of which only seven cases have been reported in the literature. Two elderly male patients (74 and 80 years) presented with a history of chronic lumbar strain and effort. They had low back pain radiating to both legs. Their neurologic examination findings were consistent with left L5 root compression. Magnetic resonance imaging showed an epidural mass lesion at L4-L5 that was continuous with the ligamentum flavum. After removal of the hematoma, the symptoms completely resolved. The most common cystic lesion in the lumbar spine is synovial cyst associated with the facet joints, but ligamentum flavum hematoma should be included in the differential diagnosis. The clinical, radiological and surgical features are described. Surgery should be the treatment of choice to resolve symptoms in ligamentum flavum hematoma.

Chronic subdural hematoma coexisting with ligamentum flavum hematoma in the lumbar spine: a case report

We present a case of a chronic spinal subdural hematoma combined with a ligamentum flavum hematoma in the lumbar spine treated surgically. An 83-year-old woman receiving antiplatelet medicine due to an angina suffered from pain in her lower extremity and gait disturbance after a backward fall. Radiological findings including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed hematoma in the ligamentum flavum at the level of L2 - L3 and a chronic subdural hematoma at the level from L3 to L5. Laminectomy through L2 to L5 was performed and a hematoma existing in the ligamentum flavum and cystic mass was removed. A chronic subdural hematoma was spontaneously evacuated after splitting of the dura mater and an intact arachnoid membrane was observed with no leakage of cerebrospinal fluid. Her clinical symptoms completely disappeared after surgery. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of combination of chronic subdural hematoma and ligamentum flavum hematoma in the lumbar spine treated by surgery. Chronic spinal subdural hematoma and hematoma in the ligamentum flavum should be considered as a cause of progressive nerve root compression in patients with anticoagulant therapy, and an appropriate pre-operative diagnosis would be needed to achieve complete decompression of subdural and epidural hematoma.

Spontaneous ligamentum flavum hematoma in the lumbar spine

Lumbar or sacral nerve root compression is most commonly caused by intervertebral disc degeneration and/or herniation. Less frequently, other extradural causes may be implicated, such as infection, neoplasm, epidural hematoma, or ligamentum flavum pathology. We present the case of a patient with spontaneous ligamentum flavum hematoma compressing the L4 nerve root, without antecedent trauma. Although exceedingly rare, the diagnosis of ligamentum flavum pathology in general, and that of ligamentum flavum hematoma in particular, should be considered on those rare occasions when the etiology of lumbar or sacral nerve root compressions appears enigmatic on radiological studies. Usually surgical treatment produces excellent clinical outcome.

Case reports: a rare cause of radicular complaints: ligamentum flavum hematoma

Hematomas in the lumbar ligamentum flavum are rare and may generate signs and symptoms of lumbar nerve root compression or neurogenic claudication similar to the far more common degenerative diseases. The pathogenesis of these hematomas is unclear. Ruptured irregular vessels of the degenerated and hypertrophic ligamentum flavum were assumed. We diagnosed three patients with a flavum hematoma intraoperatively leading to radicular complaints and spinal claudication. One occurred as a complication of local infiltration therapy, and the other two patients reported minor trauma as the releasing factor. Using spinal magnetic resonance imaging, a preoperative diagnosis is possible but the differentiation to synovial cysts is difficult. Surgical resection of the ligamentum flavum, including the hematoma, provided adequate treatment in these patients.

Ligamentum Flavum Hematoma in the Cervical Spine-Case Report-

A 67-year-old man presented with a rare case of ligamentum flavum hematoma manifesting as progressive tetraplegia following cervical traction therapy. Magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine showed a posterior mass that was continuous with the ligamentum flavum at the C3-4 levels. Complete resection of the mass that contained brownish hemorrhage was performed, resulting in excellent symptom relief. We speculate that repeated trivial trauma to the degenerative ligamentum flavum was the main predisposing factor in the present case. Ligamentum flavum hematoma is a rare cause of spinal root or cord compression which typically occurs in the lower thoracic or lumbar spine, but may also appear in the cervical spine.

Symptomatic hematoma of cervical ligamentum flavum: case report

STUDY DESIGN

A case of symptomatic hematoma of cervical ligamentum flavum.

OBJECTIVE

To report the first ligamentum flavum hematoma in the cervical spine and review the reported cases.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

A herniated nucleus pulposis, spondylosis, epidural hematoma or abscess, neoplasm, or some pathology of the ligamentum flavum, such as hypertrophy, ossification, or calcification, are the most common causes of spinal cord and nerve root compression. A ligamentum flavum hematoma has also been reported as a cause of compression of the cauda equina and lumbar nerve roots but has never been found in the cervical spine.

METHODS

A 72-year-old man presented with left upper arm pain and left hemiparesis following traditional massage therapy. Admission magnetic resonance images showed a posterior oval-shaped mass that was continuous with the ligamentum flavum at C3-C4 level.

RESULTS

A C3-C4 laminectomy for decompression and resection of the lesion was performed. One year after surgery, the patient remained neurologically intact and symptom-free.

CONCLUSIONS

Hematoma of the ligamentum flavum occurring in the cervical spine has never been reported previously. Repeated trivial injury on a degenerative ligamentum flavum might be the leading predisposing factor. Spine surgeons should be aware of a hematoma in the ligamentum flavum as a possible cause of spinal cord or root compression, especially in the mobile cervical and lumbar spine.

Ligamentum flavum hematoma in the rigid thoracic spinal segments

✓ Ligamentum flavum hematoma, a rare cause of spinal nerve root and canal compression, typically occurs in the mobile lumbar spine segments. A thoracic ligamentum flavum hematoma is extremely rare—only one such case of a thoracolumbar (T11–12) lesion has been reported. The thoracolumbar region with its floating ribs, however, is structurally and biomechanically similar to the lumbar spine and its mobility is greater than the higher thoracic levels. To the best of their knowledge, the authors report the first case of a ligamentum flavum hematoma in the region of the rigid thoracic spinal segments with the contiguous rib cage. A symptomatic T9–10 ligamentum flavum hematoma is described in the case of a 66-year-old woman with compensatory thoracic lordosis secondary to the lumbar degenerative kyphosis. The hematoma was removed and the diagnosis was histologically confirmed. The authors speculate that thoracic lordosis might have contributed to the development of the hematoma because the ligamentum flavum and the facet joint were subjected to greater axial stress than in individuals with normal spinal alignment.

Ligamentum Flavum Hematoma in the Lumbar Spine-Case Report-

A previously healthy 45-year-old woman presented with ligamentum flavum hematoma manifesting as radicular leg pain. Neurological examination findings were consistent with L-5 root compression. An old hematoma inside the degenerated ligamentum flavum was drained. The cyst showed no connection to the facet joint. Complete resection of the mass was performed, resulting in excellent pain relief. The most common cystic lesion in the lumbar spine is synovial cyst associated with the facet joints, but ligamentum flavum hematoma should be included in the differential diagnosis. The preoperative diagnosis can be based on computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging findings of degenerative thickening of the ligamentum flavum associated with a fluid component.

The pathology of ligamentum flavum in degenerative lumbar disease

STUDY DESIGN

A pathologic study of the ligamentum flavum in degenerative lumbar disease.

OBJECTIVES

To elucidate the clinical significance of each pathologic finding of the ligamentum flavum.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

In many reports, researchers observed the ligamentum flavum removed partially during surgery and did not evaluate the whole image of the ligamentum flavum. In addition, there are only a few reports that examined the possible association between various histologic findings and clinical findings. And, thus, there are many unclear points in the clinical significance indicated by each pathologic finding.

METHODS

The study participants were 50 patients with degenerative lumbar diseases who underwent surgical decompression with removal of the ligamentum flavum of the affected spinal level. Tissue specimens of the removed ligamentum flavum in cross section were prepared, and changes in the elastic fibers and collagen fibers were evaluated in three grades to evaluate the whole image. In addition, we observed the presence or absence of any focal lesions and statistically analyzed the possible association between these histologic findings and clinical symptoms or image findings.

RESULTS

In regard to the association between histologic findings and clinical symptoms or image findings, calcification was observed in significantly older patients, who tended to have low scores in preoperative JOA score, and was frequently observed in patients with cauda equina symptoms. Patients with ossification had a significantly greater % slip, and chondroid cells were frequently observed in patients with spondylolisthesis.

CONCLUSION

Various pathologic findings provided important foundations for discussing the pathogenesis of lesions in ligamentum flavum. Calcification was frequently observed in elderly patients and those with cauda equina symptoms, and these patients tended to have severer preoperative symptoms. Chondroid cells were frequently observed in patients with spondylolisthesis, and patients with ossification had a greater % slip, suggesting involvement of mechanical load in ossification of ligaments. The pathologic findings were significantly related to the clinical features, and these findings will be profitable for understanding the pathogenesis of degenerative lumbar disease.

Post-Traumatic Ligamentum Flavum Hematoma: A Case Report

We present the case of a 64-year-old female treated surgically for ligamentum flavum hematoma that caused progressive radiculopathy. Initially, she suffered from an acute onset of lower back pain. Only a history of minor back injury was discovered. She rapidly became unable to walk. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated an epidural mass lesion at L3 to L4 that was continuous with the left ligamentum flavum. The mass was hypointense on T1-weighted images and centrally hyperintense and marginally hypointense on T2-weighted images. The margin was well enhanced by gadopentetate dimeglumine administration. After removal of the mass, the patient's symptoms completely resolved. Before surgery, we believe accurate diagnosis of ligamentum flavum hematoma can be based on magnetic resonance imaging.

Ligamentum flavum hematoma in the thoracic spine

We report a case of a hematoma of ligamentum flavum at T11-12 in a 66-year-old man who presented with progressive weakness of the right foot and numbness of both legs. Past history was negative and no precipitating episode of lower back sprain or trauma. The resected T11 and T12 laminas showed old hematoma with degenerative changes in the ligamentum flavum. Hematoma occurring in the thoracic spine has never been reported previously.