The increased motion of lumbar induces ligamentum flavum hypertrophy in a rat model

Abstract Background The purpose of this study was to establish a novel rat model for ligamentum flavum (LF) hypertrophy using increased motion lumbar and elucidate the etiology (LFH). Methods A total number 30 male rats were used. induced by surgical resection L5/6 posterior elements ( n = 15). other underwent sham operation (n After 8 weeks, all taken lateral plain X-rays. LF from in both groups harvested investigate histological, immunohistological, real-time PCR analysis. Results According radiological results, disc height ratio, flexion extension ratio larger experimental group than that group. HE staining showed thickness significantly comparison Masson trichrome elastic fibers collagen lower protein gene expression TGF-?1, TNF-?, IL-1?, Col 1 higher Conclusion relatively safe, simple, rapid LFH established. could lead high inflammatory fibrotic factors LF, causing accumulation decreasing fibers.