[Calcification and ossification of the posterior and longitudinal ligament of the cervical spine(author's transl)].

Three patients with calcification or ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament of the cervical spine are described. This abnormality is very common in Japan. Descriptions from non-Japanese sources vary considerably. The practical significance of this abnormality consists of narrowing of the spinal canal, which may result in a myelopathy. Two of our patients are Chinese, the third was a white Dutchman.