Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis is the anterior slippage of a vertebra above another, meaning instability.
It may be due to an isthmic lysis, or to a degenerative disc.
It can be responsible for low back pain, and eventually radicular pain (sciatica).
The surgical treatment aims to stabilize the segment by performing a fusion.
Fusion through posterior approach
Arthrodesis is the fusion between two or more vertebra.
When performed through a posterior approach, screws are placed in the vertebra and are linked with a rod to stabilize the spine segment.
A bone grafting is performed to allow bone healing.
Fusion through anterior approach
Arthrodesis is the fusion between two or more vertebra.
When performed through an anterior approach, the intervertebral disc is removed from the front.
An intervertebral body device called a “cage” is placed between the two vertebra along with a bone graft.
The anterior approach spares the posterior spinal muscles, allows for a greater bone graft, and a better lordosis restoration.
Preoperative
Postoperative
Anterior surgery for spondylolisthesis
Step by step
Fusion through lateral approach
Arthrodesis is the fusion between two or more vertebra.
When performed through a lateral approach, the intervertebral disc is removed from the side.
An intervertebral body device called a “cage” is placed between the two vertebra along with a bone graft.
The lateral allows for a greater bone graft, and spares the posterior spinal muscles.
