抄録
Ossification of the anterior longitudinal ligament (OALL) of the cervical spine is commonly asymptomatic. Three cases of dysphagia due to OALL are reported.
Case 1 was a 61-year-old male who had severe dysphagia after pontine hemorrhage. Cervical X-rays and CT showed OALL in the C3 to C6. Video fiberscope demonstrated obstruction of the hypopharynx. Case 2 was a 70-year-old male who had undergone cervical laminoplasty for ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament 8 years ago. He developed dysphagia. Cervical X-rays and CT showed OALL in the C5 to C7. Video fiberscope demonstrated obstruction of the esophagus. Case 3 was a 57-year-old male developing progressive dysphagia. Cervical X-rays and CT showed OALL in the C5 to C7. Video fiberscope demonstrated obstruction of the hypopharynx.
All three cases showed a mechanical obstruction thought to be secondary to OALL, and had significant relief of dysphagia after resection of the bony mass.
