Histological Study and Clinical Relevance of Ligamentum Flavum

The ligamentum flavum, which is composed of a large number of elastic fibers, is of great importance for the maintenance of the normal functions of spinal physiology. However the histologic characteristics of the ligamentum flavum, esecially its ultrustructure, have not been well documented. In this study, ligamentum flavum specimens were obtained by operation from four young males with lumbar spine fracture or tumours.