It tends to be narrower and thicker around thoracic vertebrae, and wider and thinner around cervical vertebrae and lumbar vertebrae.[5]
Structure
The anterior longitudinal ligament adheres strongly to the periosteum of the vertebral bodies, but is less strongly connected with the intervertebral discs.[1]
It has three layers: superficial, intermediate and deep. The superficial layer traverses 3 – 4 vertebrae, the intermediate layer covers 2 – 3 and the deep layer is only between individual vertebrae.[citation needed]
Clinical significance
The anterior longitudinal ligament may become calcified, causing back pain.[6]
Surgical release
The anterior longitudinal ligament may be "released", or partially cut, between two adjacent vertebrae.[7] This may be done to treat abnormal curvature in the vertebral column, such as kyphosis.[7]Osteoporosis, some infections, and past back surgery may prevent this surgery.[7]
Additional images
E:Anterior longitudinal ligament
Median sagittal section through the occipital bone and first three cervical vertebræ.
↑Kadasne, D. K. (2009). Kadasne's Textbook of Anatomy (1sted.). New Delhi: Jaypee Brothers Medical Publishers. p.371. ISBN978-81-8448-455-7. OCLC682534511.
