What does multilevel ligamentum flavum hypertrophy and facet arthropathy mean?

Definition: Ligamentum flavum hypertrophy means enlargement of the tough band of tissue that connects two bones of the spine. Multilevel indicates that this is happening at several different spots in the spine. The facet joints connect the vertebrae of the spine to one another. Facet arthropathy simply means a disease or abnormality of the facet joints.

Arthritis: It is another way to say you have developed degenerative arthritis in your back. This leads to arthritis in your facet joints and Hypertrophy of the ligaments in flavin in your back which then can lead to a condition known as spinal stenosis.

Degenerative changes: OBernstein, These are descriptive terms usually found in an MRI or CT report to characterize the condition of your spine. The ligamentum flavum helps connect spinal segments and overlies the spinal cord. The facet joints are in the posterior portion of the spinal column and can show degenerative changes like all other joints in the body. Facet joint issues are a common cause of back pain.