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Complete spondylolisthesis in an infant. Treatment with decompression and fusion
Insights
Congenital spondylolisthesis, a rare spinal condition, was diagnosed in a young girl with a spastic gait. Surgical fusion and decompression provided successful treatment for this rare pediatric spinal deformity.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Spinal Surgery
- Developmental Pediatrics
Background:
- A 3-year-old girl presented with a spastic gait and focal sensory deficit.
- Radiological examination revealed a grade 4 spondylolisthesis at the L-4 and L-5 vertebral levels.
- The spinal deformity was noted at 1 year of age, with no history of significant trauma.
Abstract:
A grade 4 spondylolisthesis at the level of L-4 and L-5 was detected in a 3-year-old girl who had a spastic gait and focal sensory deficit. There was no history or objective evidence of substantial spinal trauma. A deformity over the lower part of the spine had been noted at 1 year of age and the radiological lesion was more extensive than that found in classical spondylolysis. Consquently, a diagnosis of congenital spondylolisthesis is most acceptable. Treatment via combined posterior and posterolateral fusion following anterior decompression has yielded gratifying results.