Spiros G Pneumaticos1, Stephen I Esses. 1. Institute for Spinal Disorders, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, 6560 Fannin, Suite 1900, Houston, TX 77030, USA. irosp@bcm.tmc.edu
Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT: The association between scoliosis and spondylolisthesis is well documented, but criteria and methods for managing the deformity in patients with debilitating pain are not clear. PURPOSE: To describe correction of scoliosis by internal fixation of the spondylolisthesis. STUDY DESIGN: Case report of a patient with scoliosis developing in association with spondylolisthesis. METHODS: A 17-year-old female presented with a 6-month history of back and leg pain. No spinal curvature was noted in radiographs taken at the onset of symptoms. Significant curvature appeared during the 6-month history of pain in association with an L5-S1 spondylolisthesis. The spondylolisthesis was repaired with posterior pedicle screw instrumentation. RESULTS: The pain and the spinal curvature almost completely resolved after surgery, and the outcome remained excellent 14 months after surgery. CONCLUSION: In the properly diagnosed patient, surgical repair of the spondylolisthesis can relieve pain and correct spinal curvature.
BACKGROUND CONTEXT: The association between scoliosis and spondylolisthesis is well documented, but criteria and methods for managing the deformity in patients with debilitating pain are not clear. PURPOSE: To describe correction of scoliosis by internal fixation of the spondylolisthesis. STUDY DESIGN: Case report of a patient with scoliosis developing in association with spondylolisthesis. METHODS: A 17-year-old female presented with a 6-month history of back and leg pain. No spinal curvature was noted in radiographs taken at the onset of symptoms. Significant curvature appeared during the 6-month history of pain in association with an L5-S1 spondylolisthesis. The spondylolisthesis was repaired with posterior pedicle screw instrumentation. RESULTS: The pain and the spinal curvature almost completely resolved after surgery, and the outcome remained excellent 14 months after surgery. CONCLUSION: In the properly diagnosed patient, surgical repair of the spondylolisthesis can relieve pain and correct spinal curvature.