Fig. 3

a Lateral radiograph after the second resection of the ossification of the anterior longitudinal ligament also demonstrated decreased compression of the esophagus. b, c Sagittal and axial computed tomographic images of the cervical spine (C3, bone window) after the second resection of the ossification of the anterior longitudinal ligament showed significantly decreased ossification and osteophytes without compression of the esophagus. d There was no recurrent ossification of the anterior longitudinal ligament with anterior osteophytes compressing the esophagus 1.5 years after the second resection on a lateral radiograph