Spinal Ligaments
A spine surgeon is teaching a registrar about spinal biomechanics during an anterior cervical approach. As they elevate the prevertebral tissues, the anterior longitudinal ligament (ALL) is visualized running along the anterior aspect of the vertebral bodies. The registrar asks about the structure and function of this ligament. Regarding the anterior longitudinal ligament:
Mark each as TRUE or FALSE
The anterior longitudinal ligament (ALL) is the strongest spinal ligament; it extends from the anter...
The ALL's primary function is to resist hyperextension of the spine; it also limits anterior transla...
The ALL resists flexion primarily; it is the weakest spinal ligament; it extends from C3 to L5 only;...
In DISH (diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis), the ALL becomes ossified forming flowing osteoph...
Surgical considerations include that the ALL must be divided in anterior approaches for correction o...
Answer the questions to see explanations
Click T (True) or F (False) for each option