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Lumbosacral Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis
Christopher C Chung1, Adam L Shimer1
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Virginia, PO Box 800159, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA.
Clinics in Sports Medicine
|May 30, 2021
Summary
Athletes with lower back pain may have a pars defect. Early diagnosis with imaging and conservative treatment usually leads to a good recovery and return to sports.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Radiology
Background:
- Repetitive stress on the lumbosacral spine in athletes can lead to symptomatic pars defects.
- Distinguishing spondylolysis from other causes of low back pain is crucial for appropriate management.
- Spondylolysis can progress to spondylolisthesis if not identified and managed early.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diagnosis and management of pars defects in athletic patients.
- To emphasize the role of advanced imaging in early detection.
- To outline treatment strategies and expected outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical history and physical examination findings.
- Importance of diagnostic imaging, including advanced techniques for early stress reactions.
- Evaluation of conservative and surgical management options.
Main Results:
- Early identification of pars stress reactions is possible with advanced imaging.
- Conservative management is effective for low-grade injuries.
- Surgical intervention is reserved for refractory cases or severe spondylolisthesis with neurological deficits.
Conclusions:
- Prompt diagnosis and management of spondylolysis in athletes result in favorable outcomes.
- Most athletes can return to competition after appropriate treatment.
- Understanding the progression from pars defect to spondylolisthesis is key.
