The Impact of Spine Pathology on Posterior Ligamentous Complex Structure and Function

This article provides a comprehensive review of the implications of spinal pathology on the structure, function, and biomechanical properties of the posterior ligamentous complex.Recent FindingsCurrent research characterizing biomechanical properties of the posterior ligamentous complex is primarily composed of cadaveric studies and finite element modeling, and more recently incorporating patient-specific anatomy into finite element models. The ultimate goal of current research is to understand the relative contributions of these ligamentous structures in healthy and pathological spine, and whether preserving ligaments may play an important role in spinal surgical techniques.SummaryAt baseline, posterior ligamentous complex structures account for 30 –40% of spinal stability, which is highly dependent on the intrinsic biomechanical properties of each ligament. Biomechanics vary widely with pathology and following rigid surgical fixation techniques and are generally maladaptive. Often secondary to morphological changes in the setting of spinal pathology, but morphological changes in ligament may also serve as a primary pathology. Biomechanical maladaptations of the spinal ligament adversely influence overall spinal column integrity and ultimately predispose to increased risk for surgical failure and poor clinical outcomes. Future research is needed, particularly in living subjects, to better characterize adaptations in ligaments that can provide targets for improved treatment...
Source: Current Reviews in Musculoskeletal Medicine - Category: Orthopaedics Source Type: research