Spondylolisthesis

Abstract

Spondylolisthesis refers to the anterior, lateral, or posterior slippage of a superior vertebral disc over the adjacent inferior disc, and is often separated into categories based on the causative etiology. Spondylolisthesis is often asymptomatic but may present with low back pain and neurogenic claudication which is worsened with spinal extension and activity. A detailed history and physical exam, along with appropriate imaging tests are useful in making the diagnosis. Conservative therapy is first-line and includes pain management with physical therapy. Patients who fail conservative therapy may consider surgical decompression, stabilization, and fusion. This review aims to discuss the epidemiology, pathophysiology, presentation, and treatment options of spondylolisthesis.

The Relationship between Spondylolisthesis and Modic Changes: An MRI Study

“…The Meyerding system was used for the grading of spondylolisthesis. Accordingly, grade I is 0% to 25%, grade II is 25% to 50%, grade III is 50% to 75%, grade IV is 75% to 100%, and grade V is >100% of slip (1,12).…”

“…Spondylolisthesis is described as the translocation of a superior vertebral body with respect to the one subjacent (1). Lumbar spondylolisthesis is a cause of low back pain and classified into subtypes such as isthmic (spondylolitic) and degenerative.…”

“…Degenerative spondylolisthesis is seen in persons over 50 and commonly affects the L4-L5 level (3). The standard grading of spondylolisthesis is based on the persentage of the translocation, and called Meyerding grading system (1). Diagnostic tools are history taking, physical exam, and radiologic evaluations by using x-ray, computerized tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (1,2).…”

“…The standard grading of spondylolisthesis is based on the persentage of the translocation, and called Meyerding grading system (1). Diagnostic tools are history taking, physical exam, and radiologic evaluations by using x-ray, computerized tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (1,2). Therapeutic approaches encompases conservative (rest, bracing, physical therapy, and analgesic drugs and applications) and surgical management (decompression, stabilization, and fusion) in resistant or advanced cases (1).…”

Reduction of adolescent grade IV L5–S1 spondylolisthesis with anterior joystick manipulation during a combined anterior and posterior surgical approach: A case report

“…Isthmic spondylolisthesis with anterior displacement of the vertebrae resulting from pars interarticularis defects may lead to lower back pain, most commonly at L5–S1 [1 , 2] . In pediatric patients, this condition is commonly associated with hyperextension activities [2 , 3] .…”