[Lumbosacral spondylolisthesis. Occurrence and therapeutic possibilities]

The incidence of lumbosacral spondylolisthesis is 5%, and 25% of the patients will develop symptoms. The debut of the symptoms typically occurs during the teenage years, and is not always related to the degree of spondylolisthesis. The principles of conservative treatment include symptomatic relief and reduction of the lumbar lordosis using a brace. Conservative treatment often results in temporary improvement, but symptoms often come back. In case of ineffective conservative treatment, progressive neurologic symptoms and disability surgery is indicated. New techniques make it possible to reduce the spondylolisthesis and the lumbosacral kyphosis using metal implants and spondylodesis involving the transverse processes, facet joints and pedicles.