Spondylolisthesis 

Definition:

Spondylolistesis is the slippage of the vertebral bodies on one over another to the anterior or posterior direction. Usually it is a final result of loosining of the ligaments and a continuous degeneration. The most prominent sign is pain. If the lysthesis is in a high grade with an accompanying nerve pressure the pain radiates to the thighs or the legs. If the spondylosis (the narrowing of the spinal canal) is also present neurogenic claudication that means; pain and numbness occurs during walking.

The most common reason is the degenerative changes as the aging progresses besides rheumatologic diseases or facet joint displacements and hypertrophy caused by trauma.

Treatment:

First line treatment modality is the conservative options like pain medication and physiotheraphy. If the pain management fails, the surgical treatment is the reduction of the spondylolisthesis and fusion with trasnpedicular screws. If the patient has accompanying leg pain, effective decompression is mandatory.