Adult Spondylolisthesis
by
Louis G. Jenis, MD;
Jeremy Shore, MD
"Spondylolisthesis" is the term used to describe a translation of one vertebral body with respect to an adjacent level. It was first coined by Killian in 1854, utilizing the Latin roots "spondy-" (the spine) and "olisthesis" (a slippage of). This condition is most common at the lower lumbar and lumbosacral levels, and therefore the term "spondylolisthesis" tends to imply a process in this region. The incidence of acquired spondylolisthesis in adults is between 4% and 6% in the general population, with men affected approximately twice as often as women. The diagnosis of spondylolisthesis is made after careful evaluation of patient history, physical examination and imaging studies.
This OKO topic concentrates on discussing the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and management options for adult degenerative and spondylolytic spondylolisthesis. Specific surgical techniques discussed in detail include laminectomy/arthrodesis and bilateral laminotomy. Video is available.
Keywords: spinal abnormality, spinal dysfunction, low back pain, degenerative spondylolisthesis, spondylolytic spondylolisthesis, isthmic spondylolisthesis, retrolisthesis, anterolisthesis, spinal stenosis, incidence, classification, Meyerding scale, Wiltse classification, pars interarticularis defect, diagnosis, patient history, physical examination, imaging, radiography, myelography, MRI, CT, diskography, single photon emission computed tomography, SPECT, electrodiagnostic studies, differential diagnosis, neurogenic claudication, vasculogenic claudication, management, nonsurgical treatment, surgical treatment, surgical techniques, laminectomy, arthrodesis, bilateral laminotomy, intertransverse arthrodesis, anterior and posterior arthrodesis, open anterior lumbar interbody fusion, ALIF, indications, contraindications, outcomes, complications, rehabilitation
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