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.
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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.
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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.
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The anterior approach spares the posterior spinal muscles, allows for a greater bone graft, and a better lordosis restoration.
Anterior surgery for spondylolisthesis
Step by step
Fusion through lateral approach
Arthrodesis is the fusion between two or more vertebra.
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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.
