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Updated: May 22, 2026
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C-arm-Free Simultaneous OLIF51 and Percutaneous Pedicle Screw Fixation in a Single Lateral Position
Published on: September 16, 2022
AIS and spondylolisthesis
Marco Crostelli1, Osvaldo Mazza
1Spine Disease Unit, Bambino Gesù Pediatric Hospital, Via della Torre di Palidoro 1, 00100 Palidoro-Rome, Italy. marco.crostelli@opbg.net
Summary
Scoliosis and spondylolisthesis often coexist, particularly in the lumbar spine. Treatment should address each condition independently, similar to managing idiopathic scoliosis or isolated spondylolisthesis.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Spinal Surgery
- Pediatric Spine Conditions
Background:
- The relationship between scoliosis and spondylolisthesis is complex and not fully understood.
- Etiology of scoliosis associated with spondylolisthesis, even when termed idiopathic, requires further clarification.
- This review examines the interplay between scoliosis and spondylolisthesis in adolescents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing literature on the association between scoliosis and spondylolisthesis.
- To discuss the variable nature of their relationship and etiological factors.
- To provide insights into managing these co-occurring spinal conditions in adolescents.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on scoliosis and spondylolisthesis.
- Analysis of the characteristics of associated scoliosis, including curve angle and rotation.
- Discussion of the proposed mechanisms linking spondylolisthesis to scoliosis progression.
Main Results:
- Scoliosis associated with spondylolisthesis most commonly occurs in the lumbar spine.
- Scoliosis curves under 15° Cobb with mild rotation are more likely to be directly influenced by spondylolisthesis.
- Larger curves (>15° Cobb) may have spondylolisthesis as a partial contributor, possibly through muscular spasm or vertebral rotation.
Conclusions:
- Scoliosis and spondylolisthesis should generally be managed as independent conditions.
- The origin of scoliosis (spasm, olisthetic, or mixed) does not alter treatment strategy.
- Treatment decisions should be based on the clinical presentation and therapeutic indications of each isolated pathology, mirroring approaches for idiopathic scoliosis or isolated spondylolisthesis.
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