Description
In this detailed presentation on "Acute Spondylolysis in Athletes," Consultant Spinal Surgeon Lester Wilson discusses his extensive experience in managing spinal conditions over the past 12 to 13 years. He explains that spondylolysis refers to a fracture of the pars interarticularis of the spine, with a notable incidence among athletes, especially in sports such as cricket, football, and ballet. Wilson provides statistics on the occurrence of these fractures, highlighting that up to 31 athletes were involved in his study, with a significant number presenting multiple fractures. He also explores the morphological aspects of these injuries through CT scans, illustrating the variety of fracture locations and their implications for surgical intervention.
The talk addresses treatment approaches, including conservative management strategies before considering surgery, while emphasizing that 14% of athletes may require surgical intervention due to inadequate healing. Wilson elaborates on surgical techniques, including internal fixation, bone grafting, and the use of advanced imaging technologies during procedures. He stresses the importance of understanding the healing potential of fractures based on their morphology and the complications resulting from neglecting proper treatment.
Wilson concludes with an overview of postoperative care and rehabilitation timelines for athletes, advocating for a careful, evidence-based approach to re-integration into competitive sports, illustrating the critical balance between healing and athletic performance.