Spondylolisthesis

Description

Mr Nick Birch gives his expert insights and discusses spondylolisthesis, a condition characterized by the anterior or posterior displacement of vertebrae. Spondylolisthesis typically involves the anterior displacement (spondylolisthesis) and posterior displacement (retrolisthesis) of vertebral bodies relative to adjacent vertebrae. The most common type discussed is isthmic spondylolisthesis, often caused by defects in the pars interarticularis, particularly affecting adolescents, while degenerative spondylolisthesis arises from disc and facet joint degeneration in older adults. The classification of spondylolisthesis includes five types: congenital, ischemic, degenerative, traumatic, and pathological. The transcript details various causes, risk factors, classifications, and symptoms associated with spondylolisthesis, including radicular symptoms due to nerve root compression. Diagnosis is mainly through X-ray and MRI imaging techniques, while management generally includes conservative treatments like physiotherapy and activity modification, with surgery indicated for severe cases, high-grade slips, or significant neurological deficits. The prognosis is generally positive for low-grade cases, with good outcomes for appropriately treated high-grade slips.




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DOI: 10.1302/3114-251110

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