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Spondylolisthesis Frequently Asked Questions

Q. If I have spondylolisthesis do I need surgery?

Non-surgical treatment is usually effective. Surgery may occasionally be required if conservative care fails. Surgical options include a minimally invasive primary repair of the bone defect if the patient is young and/or has a healthy intervertebral disc and facet joints, or, spinal fusion surgery if advanced degeneration and spinal instability is present along with foraminal spinal stenosis. A very careful review of the anatomy and clinical symptoms is necessary to determine the most appropriate and least invasive procedure to perform. If fusion surgery is deemed necessary, considerable variation in approach and technique exists. There is also controversy regarding the need to correct the deformity or leave it in position. Don’t be afraid to seek different opinions.

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