ligamentum flavum

Structure: - one of paired ligaments of yellow elastic fibers, attaching laminae of adjacent vertebrae - these ligaments form the dorsal wall of the vertebral canal between vertebrae Clinical manifestations: - penetration of the ligamentum flavum with a trocar during epidural injection or spinal puncture (spinal tap) may produce a distinct feel or "pop".

References

Stedman's Medical Dictionary 27th ed, Williams & Wilkins, Baltimore, 1999