Degenerative Spondylolisthesis Treatment

Degenerative spondylolisthesis is a pathologic state where the combination of arthritic and degenerative changes in disc and surrounding joints results in vertebral displacement or slippage. This misalignment of the spinal column impinges upon the spinal nerves resulting in spinal stenosis. Symptoms can range from mechanical back pain (pain when rising from a seated or laying down position or while walking) weakness, numbness or tingling in the lower extremities with activity, loss of balance and changes in bowel or bladder habits. Operative management commonly includes spinal decompression. At times, concomitant spinal fusion is performed to restrict vertebral motion in hopes of managing the condition’s inherent spinal instability.