Ligamentum flavum ganglion cyst of the cervical spine: a rare cause of myelopathy. Clinical observation and literature review

Abstract

Juxtafacet cysts include both synovial cysts directly from the facet capsule and ganglion cysts arising from the ligamentum flavum. Ganglion cysts of the cervical spine are extremely rare benign masses. The inner surface of the capsule of ganglion cysts consists of fibroblasts and has no anatomical connection with the capsule of the facet joint. Magnetic resonance imaging is the method of choice for the diagnosis of ligamentum flavum cysts, with a hyperintense round mass on T2‑weighted images with clear margins and no perifocal edema. On T1‑weighted images, an isointense signal is noted, and with contrast enhancement, the cyst wall more often accumulates a contrast. The method of choice in the surgical treatment of cysts is their total removal with sparing bone resection of the posterior vertebral structures. The outcome of surgical treatment of these formations is good with no risk of recurrence.