Slippage of one vertebra over another: when is stabilisation needed? Answers from an FMH neurosurgeon.
Spondylolisthesis is a slippage of one vertebra over another, often associated with degenerative changes. It can narrow the spinal canal and compress the nerves.
Lower back pain, pain radiating into the legs, sometimes claudication when walking — symptoms close to those of lumbar canal stenosis.
When instability is confirmed and conservative treatment has failed, nerve decompression is combined with stabilisation (fusion) of the affected segment: pedicle screws and an interbody cage, mainly at L4-L5 and L5-S1. Screw placement is guided by neuronavigation for maximum precision.
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Fusion concerns one or two specific segments; overall spinal mobility is largely maintained by the other levels. This is discussed case by case in consultation.
Consultations are conducted in French, English or German. Our secretariat is available Monday to Friday, 8 am to 6 pm.