What is isthmic spondylolisthesis?

pars interarticularis is a small bone that connects one vertebra with another in the spine. Sometimes this thin piece of bone can maintain a fracture known as spondylolysis. If this happens, the affected vertebrae may become unstable and on the other hand it can slip forward. This condition is called isthmic spondylolisthesis. Most often it happens in the lower back, in the lowest lumbar vertebrae. The initial fracture of spondylolysis is usually caused by repeated stress for pars interarticularis, which is not a particularly strong bone.

There are four degrees of isthmic spondylolisthesis based on how far the highest vertebrae slips over the other. The first stage is relatively mild, 25% or less, and the second class is 25% to 50%; Most patients fall into one of these two categories. More serious class of three (50% to 75% slip) and 4 (more than 75%) cases are less common and Cause will be very obvious physical symptoms, including a serious swing, abdomen that appears to be swollen out and possibleProblems of walking due to tightened hamstring muscles. In the most extreme cases, one vertebra can slip completely from the other; The condition is then referred to as spondyloptosis and is sometimes also known as Isthymic spondylolisthesis of the degree.

When Ithmic spondylolists, especially lower grades, is often painless and does not cause any symptoms. Many people will never have problems because of the condition or symptoms can be very mild. Those who develop pain back or on their feet often do in adulthood, because the discs between vertebrae are beginning to decompose from the force of the unsupported bones that push them. Higher slip, especially at three and four levels, may be more problematic due to the influence they have on posture and movement.

The treatment of isthmic spondylolistes, if necessary, is usually initially approaching conservatively. Rest are often used, oralSteroids and painkillers such as NSAIDs, and in cases where pain is severe, steroid injections at the site may be useful. Physical therapy and stretching exercises may also be prescribed to strengthen the back and relax hamstrings. Patients who do not find relief from these less invasive techniques can consider surgery. The main form of surgical correction for isthmic spondylolistis is the lumbar fusion of the spine; It is usually very effective to remedy the problem, but should be considered the last option because it is the main procedure.