High-Grade Lumbar Spondylolisthesis

Abstract

Most high-grade spondylolistheses are resultant from isthmic spondylolisthesis, as complete discontinuity of the pars is typically necessary to allow for this degree of anterior vertebral translation, although can occur less commonly in other scenarios. Higher-grade slips can affect the global sagittal balance of the patient and often result in altered gait patterns and compensatory posturing. Management usually entails surgical decompression and fusion with instrumentation. The addition of anterior column support carries many advantages, including greater surface area for fusion, dynamic compression load sharing at the lumbosacral junction, and a powerful adjunct for deformity correction.

Keywords: Anterolisthesis; High-grade spondylolisthesis; Isthmic spondylolisthesis; Lumbar.