Spondylolisthesis is the displacement of vertebral disc from the spinal column. Outward (forward) displacement is termed as anterolisthesis and inward (backward) displacement is termed as retrolisthesis. This condition is often preceded by spondylolysis, a degenerative condition of the vertebra.
Based on the cause of displacement, five subtypes of spondylolisthesis are identified, they are
- Dysplastic spondylolisthesis
- Isthmic spondylolisthesis
- Degenerative spondylolisthesis
- Traumatic spondylolisthesis
- Pathologic spondylolisthesis
Among the various subtypes of spondylolisthesis, the two most common forms commonly observed are dysplastic spondylolisthesis and isthmic spondylolisthesis
Dysplastic spondylolisthesis – This subtype is a congenital condition, present at birth, and is caused because of abnormal bone formation of the facet part of the vertebra resulting in spondylolisthesis.
Isthmic spondylolisthesis – This type of spondylolisthesis occurs because of a defect in the pars interarticularis part of the vertebra. This is more common in athletes and gymnasts as they often suffer from overuse injuries.
Signs and symptoms that suggest the spondylolisthesis in patients include:
