Ligamentum Flavum Buckling Causing Immediate Post-Operative Neurological Deterioration After an Anterior Cervical Discectomy: Case Report.

Neurological injury is a potential complication of anterior cervical discectomy (ACDF). Iatrogenic trauma, hypoxic-ischemic damage during surgery or epidural hematoma could cause neurological deterioration after surgery. This is the first case being reported of neurological deterioration after an anterior cervical discectomy due to ligamentum flavum buckling. The case illustrated an uncommon cause of cord compression after ACDF. Therefore, ligamentum flavum buckling should be considered as one of the potential causes for acute neurologic deterioration after an anterior cervical discectomy. While keeping this rare complication in mind, obtaining a quick post-operative imaging seems mandatory in early detection and establishing an appropriate management.