Ossification of the ligamentum flavum as a cause of myelopathy in North America: report of three cases.

Myelopathy caused by ossification of the ligamentum flavum is a rare condition in North America. The authors describe three patients whose myelopathy was attributed to posterior cord compression warranting laminectomy to decompress the cervical spine (in one patient) and the thoracic spine (in two patients). The spinal computed tomographic scan (especially after myelography) can be instrumental in guiding the management of this condition.