Spinal surgery

BACK PAIN DUE TO SLIPPED VERTEBRAE – SURGICAL PROCEDURES FOR SPONDYLOLISTHESIS

Spondylolisthesis, also known as spondylolisthesis, does not initially cause any symptoms. The clinical picture is often only discovered by chance. It is only when the muscles or nerves are compressed that the usually very severe back pain occurs. The extent to which spondylolisthesis can be cured or what optimal treatment looks like can only be determined individually after a thorough examination. For this diagnosis and promising treatment methods, our specialist in neurosurgery, Priv.-Doz. Dr Berk Orakcioglu is at your disposal.

We have nevertheless compiled all the important information on the subject of spondylolisthesis for your initial information. You will find an overview of the causes and diagnostic procedures. You will also find out when conservative treatment with physiotherapy is possible. We have also compiled important information on when an operation may be advisable in the event of a spondylolisthesis diagnosis.

Spondylolisthesis – the cause

Bei einer Spondylolisthese gleitet ein Wirbelkörper über den darunter liegenden Wirbel nach vorne in Richtung Bauch. Entweder ist dann ein Wirbelteil gebrochen oder es liegt eine angeborene Störung oder Fehlformung des Wirbelkörpers vor. Auch degenerative Prozesse wie eine verschleißende Bandscheibe können für eine Spondylolisthese verantwortlich sein.

Schwere Fälle von Gleitwirbeln finden sich meist im Übergang des 5. Lendenwirbels zum Kreuzbein. Hier kann der Wirbel komplett nach vorn gleiten. Dann rutscht er am Kreuzbein nach vorn/unten ab. Diese schwere Form des Wirbelgleitens wird als Spondyloptose bezeichnet.

Symptome und Diagnose einer Spondylolisthese

In the case of spondylolisthesis, a vertebral body slides forwards towards the abdomen over the vertebra below it. Either a part of the vertebra is broken or there is a congenital disorder or malformation of the vertebral body. Degenerative processes such as a worn intervertebral disc can also be responsible for spondylolisthesis.

Severe cases of slipped vertebrae are usually found in the transition from the 5th lumbar vertebra to the sacrum. Here, the vertebra can slide forwards completely. It then slips forwards/downwards on the sacrum. This severe form of slipped vertebrae is known as spondyloptosis.

The typical spondylolisthesis symptoms

• Hollow back
• Visible step formation at the transition from the sacrum to the lumbar spine, the sacrum protrudes backwards
• Climbing phenomenon: straightening up from a bent posture is only possible with support on the thighs Hard tension in the lumbar vertebral muscles
• Low back pain that radiates into the buttocks and legs
• No or little ability to bend
• Neurological deficits

Surgical procedures for spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis is curable. Mild and moderate spondylolisthesis symptoms can be treated well with physiotherapy. Medication or orthopaedic aids are also suitable. If the pain becomes permanent or the spondylolisthesis progresses, surgery may be advisable. The aim of all surgical procedures for spondylolisthesis is to restore the spinal column statics. This prevents irreversible damage to the intervertebral discs and nerves.

If the form of spondylolisthesis is congenital, surgery may be an option in early childhood. Repositioning of the slipped vertebra is easier to achieve than in adolescence or adulthood.

Surgical procedures for spondylolisthesis

• Screw fixation and bone apposition (direct repair)
• Reduction spondylodesis

Our doctors

Our specialist for spinal surgery

Get to know the experienced and dedicated neurosurgeon and spine surgeon Priv.-Doz. Dr. Berk Orakcioglu.

Priv.-Doz. Dr Berk Orakcioglu is a specialist in spinal surgery. The neurosurgeon performs highly demanding operations with a high degree of safety and precision. His interpersonal understanding in particular characterises his dealings with his clients.

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