Spondylolisthesis (or vertebral slippage) refers to the displacement of a vertebral body. Most often there is a rotation or forward shift (ventrolisthesis or anterolisthesis); the reverse case is referred to as retrolisthesis. The fourth or fifth lumbar vertebra is most frequently affected. Spondylolisthesis often occurs as part of general degenerative changes in the spine and is associated with only minor symptoms. However, depending on the extent of the vertebral slippage, the spinal cord or nerves in the spinal canal can also become pinched or stretched, or pronounced local pain can occur as a result of instability in the affected segment. Surgical treatment can be considered if the pain cannot be managed conservatively, if the vertebral slippage increases significantly, or if neurological deficits occur.
The goal of stabilization surgery is to reposition and fix the vertebral body using screws, rods, or plates that are inserted (spinal fusion). Whether surgery is truly necessary, which procedure should be considered, and what long-term consequences may arise are subjects of detailed consultation.