Reduction of high-grade isthmic and dysplastic spondylolisthesis in 5 adolescents

Am J Orthop (Belle Mead NJ). 2007 Jul;36(7):367-73.

Abstract

Treatment of high-grade isthmic and dysplastic spondylolisthesis in children and adolescents remains a challenge. Surgical treatment of spondylolisthesis has been recommended in adolescents with pain refractory to nonoperative modalities, slippage progression, or > 50% slippage on presentation. Controversy exists as to the optimal surgical approach for high-grade spondylolisthesis. In this report, we describe 5 cases of high-grade isthmic and dysplastic spondylolisthesis in adolescents and review the literature on surgical treatment for this entity. Operative records, charts, x-rays, and Scoliosis Research Society outcome questionnaires (SRS-22) were retrospectively evaluated for 5 consecutive patients diagnosed with and treated for high-grade spondylolisthesis. Each patient received treatment consisting of decompression, reduction, and circumferential fusion with transpedicular and segmental fixation from a posterior approach. Two patients had transient L5 nerve root deficit, which resolved within 3 months. Reduction benefits include a decrease in shear stresses (and resulting decreased rates of postoperative pseudarthrosis and slip progression), restoration of sagittal alignment and lumbosacral spine balance, and improvement in clinical deformity.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Internal Fixators
  • Lumbar Vertebrae / surgery
  • Male
  • Orthopedic Procedures
  • Postoperative Complications
  • Sacrum / surgery
  • Scoliosis / complications
  • Scoliosis / surgery
  • Spinal Fusion
  • Spondylolisthesis / complications
  • Spondylolisthesis / diagnosis
  • Spondylolisthesis / surgery*