Tensile Test of Human Lumbar Ligamentum Flavum: Age-Related Changes of Stiffness

The most common cause of lumbar spinal canal stenosis is age-related degenerative changes. ligamentum flavum said to become thicker and stiffer with age, based on several histological cadaver studies. However, there are no studies determining the changes mechanical properties in live patients. We examined patients evaluated A total 44 undergoing decompression surgery due disease at our institute were included. was harvested from site as a part necessary procedure for decompression. tensile test performed within 24 h harvest. Age-related stiffness evaluated. Age only factor that showed significant correlation multiple regression analysis. demonstrated change age.