Spondylolythesis

Question 1

what is spondylolythesis

Answer 1

• one vertebra slips forward in relation to an adjacent vertebra
• commonly occurs at L4/L5 +L5/S1
• 9-14 years olds

Question 2

what is the name for a forward slippage of vertebra

Answer 2

anterolisthesis

Question 3

what is the name for a backward slippage of vertebra

Answer 3

retrolisthesis

Question 4

Whats the difference between grade 1, 2 3 and 4

Answer 4

grade 1 - Asymptomatic

grate 2, 3 and 4 - low back pain, aggravated by extension

Question 5

what are the 4 types of spondylolythesis

Answer 5

congenital, degenerative, traumatic, pathologic

Question 6

what is degenerative spondylolythesis

Answer 6

• due to arthritic changes in the vertebra due to cartilage degeneration
• more common in older patients

Question 7

what is traumatic spondylolythesis

Answer 7

direct trauma or injury to vertebra

Question 8

what is pathologic spondylolythesis

Answer 8

defect in the bone caused by abnormal bone, tumor

Question 9

what is congenital spondylolythesis

Answer 9

defect in the pars

Question 10

what treatment would be given to someone with spondylolythesis

Answer 10

• rest from aggravating factors
• abnormal and extensor stability / strengthening
• grade 3 or 4 should avoid high speed or contact sports
• progression of slip=spinal fusion