[Degenerative vertebral dislocation]

Degenerative vertebral dislocations (laterolisthesis) are responsible for progressive transverse intervertebral shift. These changes appear like a translation of the lateral edge of a vertebra compared to that of the underlying vertebra and are easily diagnosed. Vertebral dislocations can be secondary to active lumbar scoliosis or unilateral or asymmetrical degenerative spondylolisthesis. In every case, the appearance of laterolisthesis is reflected by the onset or aggravation of scoliosis which may become self-perpetuating. This lesion is secondary to osteoarthritic disruption of the integrity of the intervertebral disk and ligaments. Open and closed patterns have been described depending on the side of the associated disk opening. The onset of a rotatory dislocation reflects the progressive evolution of the deformity, which may require medical treatment, or surgical reduction and fixation by vertebral arthrodesis.