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Degenerative spondylolisthesis: surgical treatment
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research
|June 1, 1976
Summary
Degenerative spondylolisthesis, common in older women, involves lumbar spine instability causing stenosis and pain. Surgical decompression offers lasting relief for severe cases.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Neurosurgery
- Geriatric Medicine
Background:
- Degenerative spondylolisthesis commonly affects the 4th lumbar vertebra in aging females, typically after age 50.
- It results from degenerative arthritis and instability, leading to spinal stenosis and potential nerve root compression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and surgical management of degenerative spondylolisthesis.
- To evaluate the efficacy of surgical decompression for relieving pain and disability.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical presentation and radiographic findings in patients with degenerative spondylolisthesis.
- Description of surgical technique involving decompression via excision of vertebral laminae, spinous processes, and facet joints.
Main Results:
- The condition causes localized spinal stenosis, compressing neural structures and leading to low back or lower extremity pain.
- Approximately 10% of patients require surgery for significant pain and disability.
- Surgical decompression provides lasting pain relief, though some postoperative instability symptoms may occur.
Conclusions:
- Degenerative spondylolisthesis is a distinct entity related to spinal instability and arthritis.
- Surgical decompression is an effective treatment for selected patients, offering significant and lasting pain relief.