Scanning and transmission microscopic observation of ossification of thoracic ligamentum flavum.

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We observed thoracic ligamentum flavums which had been surgically removed, by use of a scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope. They were from 8 cases of ossification of thoracic ligamentum flavums and 9 cases of spinal canal stenosis or spinal tumors with no other ossification in roentgenograms for the control. These specimens were further observed by Toluidine blue staining and Van Gieson staining. In the case of ossification of the thoracic ligamentum flavum, close to the site of ossification, various degenerative changes were observed such as wavy pattern of elastic fibres, increase of chollagen fibres, irregular patterns, and appearance of oval and rosen-shaped granular particles. Nearer the site of ossification, appearance of chondrocyte and calcification of marix were observed. At the site of ossification, Haversian systems with osteogenecity were observed. These findings could show that ossification of thoracic ligamentum flavum may be the result of a course of endochondral ossification. We discuss more about the course of ossification from the viewpoint of degeneration of ligaments.
西日本整形・災害外科学会の論文