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Degenerative cervical spondylolisthesis: a systematic review.
Sheng-Dan Jiang1, Lei-Sheng Jiang, Li-Yang Dai
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 1665 Kongjiang Road, 200092 Shanghai, China.
International Orthopaedics
|January 26, 2011
Summary
Degenerative cervical spondylolisthesis, often overlooked, presents with neck pain, radiculopathy, and myelopathy. Surgical intervention is considered for instability or spinal cord compression.
Area of Science:
- Spine surgery
- Neurology
- Radiology
Background:
- Degenerative cervical spondylolisthesis (DCS) is less studied than lumbar spondylolisthesis.
- DCS may be more prevalent than previously recognized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review DCS to inform treatment guidelines.
- To analyze the clinical presentation, causes, and management of DCS.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review of English articles (1947-2010).
- Focused on radiological examination and management of DCS.
Main Results:
- 102 patients with DCS experienced neck pain (51%), radiculopathy (22.5%), and myelopathy (63.7%).
- Most common levels affected were C3/4 (46%) and C4/5 (49.4%).
- Disc degeneration and facet hypertrophy were primary causes; 46.3% showed segmental instability.
Conclusions:
- Further prospective studies are needed for definitive management strategies.
- Surgery is indicated for radiologically proven DCS with instability or spinal cord compression.
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