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Diagnosis of spondylolisthesis
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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The diagnosis of spondylolisthesis in children is based on a set of anamnestic, clinical data, the results of radiation and physiological methods of investigation.
In the anamnesis, chronic trauma of the lumbosacral spine is noted. The formation of spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis is promoted by weightlifting, gymnastics, dancing, ballet, swimming.
On the radiographs of the lumbosacral spine, signs of dysplasia of the lumbosacral segment, forward displacement of the vertebral body, deformation of the posterior vertebral line are revealed.
On the anteroposterior radiographs, the height of the body of the displaced vertebra is somewhat reduced; it is layered in the form of an arcuate shadow on the upper part of the sacrum - a symptom of the "gendarmer's caps". Sometimes, the spinous process of the displaced vertebra tilts upward, a symptom of the "passerine tail" according to Turner.
Scoliotic deformity of the lumbar spine of I-II degree is often noted.
With spiral CT and MRI also show pronounced degenerative-dystrophic changes. Sclerotherapy of adjacent segments with marginal osteophytes. Decrease in the height of intervertebral discs, protrusion of discs. Deformation of the spinal canal at the pathological level, narrowing of the vertebral apertures.
Electro-neurophysiological research methods record Moderate asymmetry of the back muscles with a decrease in electrogenesis at the levels of L3-S1, segments. There is a decrease in M-response in amplitude up to 40%. On one side, which is typical for a partial block of ischemic character at the levels of the proximal parts of rootlets L3-S1, on one side.
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