Abstract
Obejective
To perform a magnetic resonance imaging T2-mapping of the ligamentum flavum in healthy
individuals and patients with lumbar spinal stenosis scheduled for surgery and compare
the T2 relaxation times.
Subjects and Methods
The T2 relaxation time of the ligamentum flavum was compared among 3 groups, healthy
young individuals (H group (age< 50)), healthy middle-aged and older individuals (H
group (age≥50)), and patients with lumbar spinal stenosis (L group). Additionally,
the thickness of the ligament was measured in the axial image plane, and the occupied
area ratio of each fiber was measured by staining the surgically obtained ligament,
and each was correlated with the T2 relaxation time. We also evaluated the adhesion
of the ligamentum flavum with the dura mater during the surgery.
Results
The T2 relaxation times were significantly prolonged in H group (age ≥50) and L group
(P < 0.001) compared to H group (age<50). The relationship between collagen fiber and
T2 relaxation times was significantly positive (r = 0.720, P < 0.001). Moreover, the relaxation times were significantly prolonged in those with
adhesion of the ligamentum flavum with the dura mater (P < 0.05). The cut-off for the relaxation time was 50 ms (sensitivity: 62.50%, false
positive rate: 10.8%).
Conclusion
Healthy middle-aged and older individuals and patients with lumbar spinal stenosis
and adhesion of the ligamentum flavum with the dura mater have prolonged T2 relaxation
times. Hence, the adhesion between the ligamentum flavum and dura mater should be
considered in cases with a relaxation time ≥50 ms.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: January 06, 2023
Accepted:
December 17,
2022
Received in revised form:
December 15,
2022
Received:
August 4,
2022
Publication stage
In Press Corrected ProofIdentification
Copyright
© 2023 Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of The Japanese Orthopaedic Association.
