Posterior Longitudinal Ligament

Question 1

Newer research suggests what regional variation in the PLL?

Answer 1

prominent in the cervicals, occasional in the thoracics, rare in the lumbars

Question 2

What is the relationship of the PLL to the vertebral foramen?

Answer 2

it forms the anterior boundary of the spinal canal

Question 3

What is the innermost layer of the PLL called?

Answer 3

the perivertebral ligament

Question 4

What is the function of the PLL?

Answer 4

it brakes or limits flexion of the vertebral column

Question 5

Where is ossification of the PLL most commonly identified?

Answer 5

the cervical spine with an 80% incidence

Question 6

What is the clinical sign of ossification of the PLL in the cervical spine?

Answer 6

a loss of hand and finger dexterity

Question 7

What is the clinical sign of ossification of the PLL in the lumbar spine?

Answer 7

faltering gait

Question 8

What is the gender, age, and ethnic bias associated with ossification of the PLL?

Answer 8

it is greater in males over 50 and has a higher incidence in Japanese