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Diagnosis of spondylolisthesis
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
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The diagnosis of spondylolisthesis in children is based on a combination of anamnestic, clinical data, and the results of radiological and physiological research methods.
The anamnesis shows chronic trauma to the lumbosacral spine. The development of spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis is facilitated by weightlifting, gymnastics, dancing, ballet, and swimming.
Radiographs of the lumbosacral spine reveal signs of dysplasia of the lumbosacral segment, anterior displacement of the vertebral body, and deformation of the posterior vertebral line.
On anteroposterior radiographs, the height of the body of the displaced vertebra is somewhat reduced; it is superimposed in the form of an arcuate shadow on the upper part of the sacrum - the "gendarme's cap" symptom. Sometimes the spinous process of the displaced vertebra is thrown upward - the "sparrow's tail" symptom according to Turner.
Scoliotic deformation of the lumbar spine of I-II degree is often observed.
Spiral CT and MRI also reveal pronounced degenerative-dystrophic changes. Sclerosis of adjacent segments with marginal osteophytes. Decreased height of intervertebral discs, disc protrusion. Deformation of the spinal canal at a pathological level, narrowing of the vertebral openings.
Electroneurophysiological methods of research register moderate asymmetry of the back muscles with a decrease in electrogenesis at the levels of L3-S1, segments. A decrease in the M-response in amplitude to 40% is noted on one side, which is typical for a partial conduction block of an ischemic nature at the levels of the proximal parts of the roots L3-S1, on one side.
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