Related Experiment Videos
Acute traumatic L5-S1 spondylolisthesis
Martin Lamm1, Svend-Erik Heiselberg Henriksen, Søren Eiskjaer
1Northern Orthopedic Division, Department of Orthopedics, Aalborg Hospital, University of Aarhus, Skolemestervej 23, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark. M.Lamm@dadlnet.dk
Journal of Spinal Disorders & Techniques
|December 6, 2003
Summary
Acute traumatic spondylolisthesis at L5-S1, often from major trauma, requires prompt diagnosis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is crucial for surgical planning, leading to successful treatment via instrumented fusion.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Neurosurgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Acute traumatic spondylolisthesis at the L5-S1 level is rare, typically resulting from severe trauma.
- Associated injuries often include L5 transverse process fractures and neurological deficits.
- Posterior stabilization with open reduction and internal fixation is a common treatment approach.
Observation:
- A case involving a victim of a major automobile accident presented with acute traumatic L5-S1 spondylolisthesis.
- Clinical signs included a right L5 root deficit without sphincter dysfunction.
- Computed tomography revealed posterior L5 fractures and anterior L5-S1 displacement; MRI confirmed acute disc rupture and ligamentous injury.
Findings:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is vital for accurately assessing the acuity of traumatic spondylolisthesis.
- MRI findings of disc rupture and ligamentous injury aid in surgical planning.
- The case highlights the diagnostic importance of MRI in acute spinal trauma.
Implications:
- Successful treatment was achieved using acute circumferential instrumented L4-S1 spondylodesis.
- This case underscores the value of advanced imaging in managing complex spinal injuries.
- Optimal surgical strategies for acute traumatic spondylolisthesis benefit from comprehensive pre-operative assessment.