Degenerative Spondylolisthesis

J Spinal Disord Tech. 2015 Aug;28(7):236-41. doi: 10.1097/BSD.0000000000000298.

Abstract

Degenerative spondylolisthesis (DS) is one of the more commonly encountered spine conditions. The diagnosis of DS has changed little in the last 30 years. However, there has been an evolution in the treatment of this disease entity. There have been several landmark papers that helped govern our treatment. These helped serve as the basis for the treatment arms of the Spine Patient Outcomes Research Trial (SPORT), which offers the highest quality evidence to date. Although few would argue that the fusion of the diseased segment appears to offer the best and most durable results, treatment of this disease is best tailored to the individual. Fusion may offer the best results in the young active patient, but the same results may never become evident in the medically infirm patient. Laminectomy or unilateral laminoforaminotomy still plays a role in disease treatment. This review will focus on the diagnosis and the treatment of DS as well as discuss the author's preferred treatment of this disease.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Orthopedic Procedures / methods*
  • Spinal Fusion
  • Spondylolisthesis / diagnosis
  • Spondylolisthesis / epidemiology
  • Spondylolisthesis / surgery*
  • Treatment Outcome