SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF LUMBAR SPONDYLOLISTHESIS

Abstract

Lytic spondylolisthesis is a common condition and is frequently identified in the adult patient with low back pain. The current premise is that lytic defect is the result of a fatigue fracture that occurs through a congenitally weak or deficient pars. If radiologic studies are required, plain x rays are the basic studies to diagnose and evaluate the condition, however, magnetic resonance imaging is an essential preoperative investigation.

Despite a wide array of surgical options available, nonoperative care continues to be the mainstay and initial focus of treatment for the adult with lytic spondylolisthesis. For patients who have persistent complaints of lower back pain, with or without radiculopathy, and who have not responded satisfactorily to nonoperative management, arthrodesis may be indicated.