Ligamentum Flavum Buckling Causing Immediate Post-Operative Neurological Deterioration After an Anterior Cervical Discectomy: Case Report

Özet

Neurological injury is a potential complication of anterior cervical discectomy (ACDF). Iatrogenic trauma, hypoxic-ischemic damageduring surgery or epidural hematoma could cause neurological deterioration after surgery. This is the first case being reportedof neurological deterioration after an anterior cervical discectomy due to ligamentum flavum buckling. The case illustrated anuncommon cause of cord compression after ACDF. Therefore, ligamentum flavum buckling should be considered as one of thepotential causes for acute neurologic deterioration after an anterior cervical discectomy. While keeping this rare complication inmind, obtaining a quick post-operative imaging seems mandatory in early detection and establishing an appropriate management.