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Spondylolisthesis "A Slipped Vertebra" The term spondylolisthesis is used to describe several different spinal disease processes where one vertebra is out of its normal alignment with the adjacent vertebra. The term means "spine slip". This is clearly seen and measurable on routine x-rays. It should not be confused with the chiropractic community's concept of a vertebra being "out" (without any imaging abnormalities, including x-rays). The typical appearance of spondylolisthesis is one vertebra slipping forward on the vertebra below. Retrolisthesis is a term used to describe when a vertebra is slipping backward on the vertebra below. Lateralolisthesis describes the vertebra that is displaced to the side of the vertebra below. Rotatory listhesis is a degenerative condition where a vertebra rotates on the vertebra below. Diagnosis Routine standing spinal x-rays are the best way to diagnose vertebral malalignment such as spondylolisthesis. Flexion and Extension (patient bending forward and backward with maximum effort) xrays of the spine are also helpful to assess whether the spine moves excessively and is unstable. Often, spinal stenosis (pinched spinal nerves) accompanies spondylolisthesis and additional imaging studies are required to detect the presence of nerve compression within the spinal canal. A MRI scan is an excellent test to show the soft tissues of the spine in a way not possible with x-rays. A myelogram combined with a CT scan is another excellent way to evaluate nerve compression, especially when it is related to bone spurs and other arthritic processes which can narrow the spinal canal and compress nerves. A CT scan by itself (without a myelogram) may be useful in diagnosing the type of spondylolisthesis caused by a stress fracture. This type, called "isthmic spondylolisthesis, can usually be diagnosed on the basis of oblique x-rays. Occasionally, isthmic spondylolisthesis is diagnosed with a CT scan. A bone scan can be helpful at identifying a recent stress fracture that could lead to spondylolisthesis. This has an important role in children who have back pain from an undiagnosed cause, and isthmic spondylolisthesis is suspected. Causes There are five general causes for spondylolisthesis. Isthmic spondylolisthesis results from a stress fracture in the back part of the spine, and most commonly develops between ages 5 and 8. It may or may not cause back pain. Five percent of the American population has it. Fifty percent of Eskimos and 10% of professional football linemen playing in the NFL have it. It is also a common source of back pain in highly competitive gymnasts, occurring in up to a third of these athletes. The most common type of spondylolisthesis is caused by degenerative changes in the spine, particularly in the facet joints. As these joints wear out, they become lax and fail to maintain normal spinal alignment. The same arthritic process that wears out the joints in the spine can also cause bone spurs to grow which then cause nerve compression and spinal stenosis. Stenosis and degenerative spondylolisthesis occur together very often. Rare causes of spondylolisthesis include tumors or infection that destroy the back part of the spine, and acute fractures through the back of the spine. These destructive processes disrupt spinal stability and
"What If I Don't Have Surgery?" Since surgery is usually done for relief of pain, the decision to postpone surgery is essentially a decision to live with the pain a bit longer. Most patients know very clearly when they are ready to have their spinal problem surgically corrected. Their pain is intrusive and constant, work is difficult, social life or hobbies are impossible, family life is compromised, and the level of function is in every way sub-optimal. Risks of Surgery - As with any surgery, there are risks with spinal surgery to correct spondylolisthesis. The risks depend on the procedure being performed, the complexity of the spinal problem, and the health of the patient. Some of the more common problems with posterior surgery (surgery from the back) include infection (1-3%), failure of fusion (3-15%), nerve root injury (1%), dural leak (1-5%), hardware failure (1%), and excessive blood loss (5%). Complications unique to anterior surgery (surgery through the abdomen) include prolonged resumption of bowel function, injury of blood vessels or bowel, incisional hernia, and retrograde ejaculation in males (1-3%). General complications that can occur with any surgery include blood clots, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolus, heart attack, pneumonia, urine infection, incision infection, virus transmission through blood transfusion, and many others. The general health risk from surgery depends on the health of the patient. A complete physical is recommended for anyone with health problems before undergoing major spinal surgery. Possible Surgical Approaches POSTERIOR SPINAL FUSION - This approach involves placing bone graft on the back and/or sides of the slipped vertebra and the one below. When the bone heals, it will fuse and stabilize the slipped vertebra. Fusion rates in children are excellent. In adults, failure of fusion can approach 60% if spinal instrumentation is not used. As in all cases of spondylolisthesis, if nerves are compressed, a LAMINECTOMY is also performed. Performing a laminectomy and fusion without instrumentation is the historic approach for this disease and still has a place in current surgical practice for low-grade slips in children, and in degenerative listhesis in adults who do not have much back pain. POSTERIOR SPINAL FUSION with INSTRUMENTATION - This is the most common technique used today to address the instability caused from spondylolisthesis. Adding spinal instrumentation (screws in the vertebrae linked together with rods to immediately stabilize the spine) greatly increases the success of the fusion. Postoperative pain is improved and long term outcomes are better than with fusions without instrumentation. Fusion rates when instrumentation is used are about 95%. ANTERIOR INTERBODY FUSION - This technique was renewed in the mid 1990's and involves placing a titanium or plastic cage into the disk below the slipped vertebra. This is done through an incision in the abdomen. The cage or dowel contains the patient's own bone. Success rates are good if the procedure is limited to vertebrae that are not slipped more than a few millimeters in patients without significant nerve compression. Fusion rates are likely in the 85% range when bone is used and 95% or better if Bone Morphogenetic Protein is used. The rehab after surgery is quicker than with posterior procedures.
Introduction Normally, the bones of the spine (the vertebrae) stand neatly stacked on top of one another. Ligaments and joints support the spine. Spondylolisthesis alters the alignment of the spine. In this condition, one of the spine bones slips forward over the one below it. As the bone slips forward, the nearby tissues and nerves may become irritated and painful. This guide will help you understand how the problem develops how doctors diagnose the condition what treatment options are available
Intervertebral discs separate the vertebral bodies. The discs normally work like shock absorbers. They
protect the spine against the daily pull of gravity. They also protect the spine during strenuous activities that put strong force on the spine, such as jumping, running, and lifting. The lumbar spine is supported by ligaments and muscles. The ligaments, which connect bones together, are arranged in layers and run in multiple directions. Thick ligaments connect the bones of the lumbar spine to the sacrum (the bone below L5) and pelvis. Between the vertebrae of each spinal segment are two facet joints. The facet joints are located on the back of the spinal column. There are two facet joints between each pair of vertebrae, one on each side of the spine. A facet joint is made of small, bony knobs that line up along the back of the spine. Where these knobs meet, they form a joint that connects the two vertebrae. The alignment of the facet joints of the lumbar spine allows freedom of movement as you bend forward and back. The anatomy of the lumbar spine is often discussed in terms of spinal segments. Each spinal segment includes two vertebrae separated by an intervertebral disc, the nerves that leave the spinal cord at that level, and the facet joints that link each level of the spinal column.
Degenerative changes in the spine (those from wear and tear) can also lead to spondylolisthesis. The
spine ages and wears over time, much like hair turns gray. These changes affect the structures that normally support healthy spine alignment. Degeneration in the disc and facet joints of a spinal segment causes the vertebrae to move more than they should. The segment becomes loose, and the added movement takes an additional toll on the structures of the spine. The disc weakens, pressing the facet joints together. Eventually, the support from the facet joints becomes ineffective, and the top vertebra slides forward.
Symptoms What does the condition feel like? An ache in the low back and buttock areas is the most common complaint in patients with spondylolisthesis. Pain is usually worse when standing, walking, or bending backward and may be eased by resting or bending the spine forward. Leaning on a counter top, piece of furniture, or shopping cart are common ways to alleviate (reduce) the symptoms. Spasm is also common in the low back muscles. The hamstring muscles on the back of the thighs may become tight.
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If your doctor diagnoses an acute pars fracture that has the potential to heal, it may be recommended that you wear a rigid back brace for two to three months. This usually occurs in children and teenagers who begin having back pain and see their doctor early on. X-rays may show a fresh fracture of the pars area of the vertebra on one, or both, sides. A CT scan or bone scan may be recommended to determine if the fracture is likely to heal. If so, a brace is recommended. X-rays or a CT scan may be ordered in six to eight weeks to see if the fracture is healing. IF not, the brace will be discontinued. Some patients who continue to have symptoms are given an epidural steroid injection (ESI). Steroids are powerful anti-inflammatories, meaning they reduce pain and swelling. In an ESI, medication is injected into the space around the lumbar nerve roots. This area is called the epidural space. Some doctors inject only a steroid. Most doctors, however, combine a steroid with a long-lasting numbing medication. Generally, an ESI is given only when other treatments aren't working. But ESIs are not always successful in relieving pain. If they do work, they may only provide temporary relief.
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Outcomes are improved when decompression is combined with fusion (compared with decompression alone). Fusion and functional improvement are even better when spinal instrumentation is used. There are fewer long-term problems with pain and pseudoarthrosis (formation of movement or false joints within the fusion). Related Document: A Patient's Guide to Posterior Lumbar Fusion Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion When fusion surgery is needed for mild spondylolisthesis (up to 50 percent slippage), posterior lumbar interbody fusion may be considered. In this procedure, the problem vertebrae are fused from the anterior (front) and posterior (back). Combining fusion of both portions of the spine increases the fusion surface area and improves the fusion rate. The surgeon works from the back of the spine and removes the disc between the problem vertebrae. Bone graft material is inserted from the back of the spine into the space between the two vertebrae where the disc was removed (the interbody space). The graft may be held in place with a special fusion cage that spreads and holds the vertebrae apart. Surgeons usually apply some form of instrumentation (described above) on the back of the vertebrae. In some cases, additional strips of bone graft are placed along the back surfaces of the vertebrae to be fused. This increases the mechanical strength of the spine.
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A primary purpose of therapy is to help you learn how to take care of your symptoms and prevent future problems. You'll be given a home program of exercises to continue improving flexibility, posture, endurance, and low back and abdominal strength. The therapist will also describe strategies you can use if your symptoms flare up. After Surgery Rehabilitation after surgery is more complex. Patients who have surgery for spondylolisthesis usually stay in the hospital for a few days afterward. Some surgeons require patients to wear a rigid brace or cast for up to four months after fusion surgery for spondylolisthesis. Patients who've had fusion surgery for a severe slip may also be required to stay off their feet for four months. After lumbar fusion surgery for spondylolisthesis, patients must normally wait four months before beginning a rehabilitation program. This delay is needed to give the fusion a chance to start healing. Patients typically need to attend therapy sessions for six to eight weeks and should expect full recovery to take at least 12 months.
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Spondylolisthesis occurs when one vertebra slips forward on the adjacent vertebrae. This will produce both a gradual deformity of the lower spine but also a narrowing of the vertebral canal. It is often associated with pain. There are five major types of spondylolisthesis:
Type I is called dysplastic spondylolisthesis and is secondary to a congenital defect of either the superior sacral or inferior L5 facets or both with gradual slipping of the L5 vertebra. * Type II, isthmic or spondylolytic, in which the lesion is in the isthmus or pars interarticularis, has the greatest clinical importance in persons under the age of 50. If a defect in the pars interarticularis can be identified but no slipping has occurred, the condition is termed spondylolysis. If one vertebra has slipped forward on the other (horizontal translation), it is referred to as spondylolisthesis.
Type II can be divided into three subcategories: Type II A is sometimes called Lytic or stress spondylolisthesis and is most likely caused by recurrent micro-fractures caused by hyperextension. It is also called a "stress fracture" of the pars interarticularii and is much more common in males.
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Type II B probably also occurs from micro-fractures in the pars. However, in contrast to Type II A, the pars interarticularii remain intact but stretched out as the fractures fill in with new bone.
Type II C is very rare in occurrence and is caused by an acute fracture of the pars. Nuclear imaging may be needed to establish diagnosis.
Type III is a degenerative spondylolisthesis, and occurs as a result of the degeneration of the lumbar facet joints. The alteration in these joints can allow forward or backward vertebral displacement. This type of spondylolisthesis is most often seen in older patients. In Type III, degenerative spondylolisthesis there is no pars defect and the vertebral slippage is never greater than 30%.
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Type IV, traumatic spondylolisthesis, is associated with acute fracture of a posterior element (pedicle, lamina or facets) other than the pars interarticularis.
Type V, pathologic spondylolisthesis, occurs because of a structural weakness of the bone secondary to a disease process such as a tumor or other bone diseases.
Symptoms The most common symptom of spondylolisthesis is low back pain. Many times a patient can develop the lesion (spondylolysis) between the ages of five and seven and not present symptoms until they are 35years-old, when a sudden twisting or lifting motion will cause an acute episode of back and leg pain. Usually the pain is relieved by extension of the spine and made worse when flexed. The degree of vertebral slippage does not directly correlate with the amount of pain a patient will experience. Fifty percent of patients with spondylolisthesis will associate an injury with the onset of their symptoms. In addition to back pain, patients may complain of leg pain. In this situation, there can be associated narrowing of the area where the nerves leave the spinal canal that produces irritation of a nerve root. Diagnosis Many patients with spondylolisthesis will have vague symptoms and very little visible deformity. Often, the first physical sign of spondylolisthesis is tightness of the hamstring muscles in the legs. Only when the slip reaches more than 50 percent of the width of the vertebral body will there begin to be a visible deformity of the spine. There may be a dimple at the site of the abnormality. Sometimes there are mild muscle spasms and usually some local tenderness can be felt in the area. Range of motion is often not affected, but some pain can be expected on hyperextension. Laboratory test results are normal in patients with one or both disorders. Plain roentgenograms of the lumbar spine are best initial X-rays for diagnosing spondylolysis or spondylolisthesis. Spondylolisthesis is most easily seen on the lateral view of the spine, but in some cases specialized imaging studies such as a bone scan or CT scan (CAT scan) are needed to make the
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There are 33 vertebrae in the human spine: 7 in the neck area (cervical), 12 in the chest area (thoracic), 5 in the lumbar (lower back), 5 fused vertebrae in the pelvic area (sacrum) and 4 fused vertebrae forming the tailbone (coccyx). The cervical, thoracic and lumbar vertebrae are held in place, one above the next, by projections on each vertebra called superior and inferior processes. The inferior (lower) process of the top vertebra fit into the superior (upper) process of the lower vertebra, forming a joint that holds the vertebrae in place. Between each vertebra (except in the sacrum and coccyx) intervertebral (between the vertebrae) discs cushion and separate the vertebrae. What is spondylolisthesis? Spondylolisthesis is a Latin term meaning improper forward movement of a vertebra over the vertebra below it. Most often, this forward slip of the vertebra occurs in the lumbar area of the spine. This slippage and herniation (deformity) of the disc places pressure on the nerve roots associated with the affected vertebrae, causing pain and dysfunction. While the herniation of the disk causes pain, discectomy alone is unable to provide relief . The reduction in disk space height and abnormal amount of movement allowed by the joint also causes pressure on the nerves. This intervertebral space must be restored in order to provide adequate space for the nerves. What causes spondylolisthesis? Spondylolisthesis occurs only in people who are able to stand upright and walk, so is virtually nonexistent among newborns. The upright position of human walking seems to have a direct effect on the development. It is more common in persons who participate is sports such as diving, weight lifting, wrestling and gymnastics. All these activities require repetitive hyperextension, which can contribute to instability of the spine.
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1. Anterior or Posterior Decompression with fusion cages The goals of surgery are to remove pressure on spinal nerves (decompression), and to provide stability to the lumbar spine. Decompression involves removing the damaged structures that are causing the spondylolisthesis. In most cases of spondylolisthesis, lumbar decompression is accompanied by the uniting of one spinal vertebra to the next (spinal fusion) with spinal instrumentation (implants that are used to assist the healing process). Surgery can be performed from the back of the spine (posterior) or from the front of the spine (anterior). A structural graft is inserted into the place previously occupied by the removed structure. The purpose of this graft is to hold the disc space open until the fusion is complete. The graft is often held in place by a "cage" device, such as the BAK cage. 2. Laminectomy decompression with graft In the laminectomy procedure, the spine is approached through a two-inch to five-inch incision in the midline of the back, and the left and right back muscles are detached from the lamina on both sides. The lamina are flat bone projections on each side of the vertebra. After this is accomplished, the lamina is removed (laminectomy), allowing the doctor to see the nerve roots. The facet joints, which are directly over the nerve roots, may then be trimmed to give the nerve roots more room. Once the nerve roots have adequate space made by the removed lamina and facet joint trimmings, pressure is eliminated, thereby alleviating pain. Bone graft chips may be placed between the vertebrae to create a solid section of bone, preventing motion that may detract from healing.
3. Posterolateral fusion The posterolateral fusion involves placing bone graft in the posterolateral portion of the spine (behind and to one side of the spine).The surgical approach to the spine is from the back through a midline incision that is approximately three inches to six inches long. First, bone graft is obtained from the pelvis (the iliac crest). Most surgeons work through the same incision to obtain the bone graft and perform the spinal fusion.
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Isthmic Spondylolisthesis starts with a stress fracture in a part of a vertebra called the pars interarticularis (a narrow piece of bone connecting the facet joints). Facet joints are hinge-like joints attached to the
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Avoid activities that stress the low er back such as lifting heavy objects.
Exercise
Consult a physician before starting an exercise plan. Do not do any exercise that causes pain.
Stretching the muscles of the lower back relieve muscle spasms. Stretching the hamstrings also helps. Strengthening the muscles that support the lumbar spine both back and abdominal muscles are particularly helpful. Strong muscles and ligaments help hold the vertebrae in place. Low impact aerobics tone the muscles in the back without placing undue stress on the spine. Low impact aerobics include walking, swimming, or riding a stationary bike or elliptical trainer. Aerobics also help keep ones weight under control; being overweight increases stress on the lower back.
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Spondylolisthesis in the lumbar spine is most commonly caused by degenerative spinal disease (degenerative spondylolisthesis), or a defect in one region of a vertebra (isthmic spondylolisthesis).
What are the types of spondylolisthesis? Spondylolisthesis can be classified by into five groups (Newman (1976)): Group 1: dysplastic o o developmental malformation of the L5S1 joint usually slight slippage
Group 2: isthmic o stress fractures of the pars interarticularis (bridge of bone), which is critical for lumbar stability o usually increased slippage
Group 3: traumatic o o severe separation of the laminae from the spinous process as a result of fractures marked slippage may occur
Group 4: degenerative o this usually results from wear on the discs and facet joints
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sometimes occurs or increases after decompressive surgery (laminectomy) for lumbar stenosis
Group 5: pathological o o local disease weakens the pedicles, and a slip occurs tumour and infection are the usual causes
Which types of spondylolisthesis are the most common? Degenerative spondylolisthesis is very common, and occurs as a result of due to degeneration or wear and tear of the intervertebral discs and ligaments. Osteoarthritis of the facet joints can also play an important role in the development of instability and slippage. Degenerative spondylolisthesis usually occurs in people over 60 years of age. In degenerative spondylolisthesis, what usually happens is that ongoing degeneration weakens the facet joints and disc, and (typically) the L4 vertebral body slips forward on the L5 vertebral body. The L4-L5 segment is the one in the lumbar spine with the most movement under normal circumstances, and is therefore most likely to slip when this process occurs. The next most common levels affected by degenerative spondylolisthesis are L3-L4 L5-S1. Isthmic spondylolisthesis occurs most often at L5-S1, and is frequently seen in younger adults than degenerative spondylolisthesis. The cause is a defect in the pars interarticularis (an important bridge of bone) of L5. How is spondylolisthesis graded? Spondylolisthesis is graded according to the severity of the slippage (Mayerding classification): Grade 1- <25% slip Grade 2- 25-50% slip Grade 3- 50-75% slip Grade 4- 75-100% slip
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When one vertebra slips entirely off the one below (>100% slip), this is known as spondyloptosis (see picture).
What are the symptoms of spondylolisthesis? Spondylolisthesis is usually asymptomatic, and is commonly seen on X-rays and CT scans as an incidental finding. It may, however, produce significant symptoms and disability. Back pain is the most common symptom of spondylolisthesis. This pain is typically worse with activities such as bending and lifting, and often eases when lying down. As the spine attempts to stabilise the unstable segment, the facet joints enlarge (hypertrophy) and place pressure on the nerve root causing lumbar spinal stenosis and lateral recess stenosis. Furthermore, as one bone slips forward on the other, narrowing of the intervertebral foramen may also occur (foraminal stenosis). Severe nerve compression can therefore occur with pain, numbness and weakness in the legs. Sometimes loss of control of the bladder and/or bowels can occur due to pressure on the nerves going to these important structures. How is spondylolisthesis diagnosed? Imaging studies including MRI and CT can show a slip, as well as narrowing (stenosis) or compressed nerves in the spinal canal.
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The CT and MRI scans are usually obtained with the patient lying flat, however sometimes a slip may only be obvious when standing or bending forwards. This is why your neurosurgeon will sometimes obtain flexion, extension and standing X-rays, and occasionally a CT myelogram. What are the treatment options for spondylolisthesis? Treatment for symptomatic spondylolisthesis is similar to treatments for other causes of mechanical and compressive back pain. It is usually non-operative, and surgery is only necessary in a small percentage of patients. Your specialist may prescribe modification of physical activities, including avoidance of certain recreational and work-related activities, to help settle symptoms from mechanical back pain. Special braces are occasionally prescribed to ease back pain. Strict bed rest is rarely needed, however short periods of bed rest may help with acute painful episodes. A well-rounded physical rehabilitation program assists in settling pain and inflammation, improving mobility and strength, and helping you to do your daily activities more easily. A combination of physiotherapy, hydrotherapy and clinical pilates is usually recommended. Positions, movements, and exercises are prescribed to reduce pain. Hamstring flexibility is addressed, along with strength and coordination exercises for the low back and abdominal muscles (core stability exercises). The aims of these physical therapies are to assist you in: managing your condition and controlling your symptoms correcting your posture and body movements to reduce back strain improving your flexibility and core strength
Some patients also benefit from chiropractic treatment osteopathy, remedial massage, and acupuncture. Review by a clinical psychologist is often useful. Strategies to manage pain may include cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness-based programs. It is important to treat any associated depression or anxiety, as these conditions may increase your experience of pain.
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Medications play an important role in controlling pain, easing muscle spasms, and helping to regain a normal sleep pattern. Long-term medication usage should not be undertaken lightly, and should be closely supervised in order to avoid problems such as tolerance and dependence (addiction). Surgery is needed only if conservative treatments fail to keep your pain at a tolerable level. Surgical treatment for spondylolisthesis must address both the mechanical (instability) and compressive (nerve pressure) issues. Nerve pressure generally requires surgical decompression, also known as a decompressive laminectomy. In order to deal with the compressive issues by taking pressure off the nerves, your surgeon may need to remove some or all of one or both facet joints, as well as portions of the lamina. The facet joints in particular normally provide stability in the lumbar spine. Removal of either or both can cause the spine to become loose and unstable, especially when a degree of slippage has already occurred. A fusion is therefore usually recommended. Similarly, a fusion is necessary to adequately deal with the mechanical issues of instability in spondylolisthesis.
Four types of fusion surgery are commonly recommended for the treatment of spondylolisthesis, depending upon individual patient factors: 1. Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)
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2. Posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) 3. Instrumented posterolateral fusion (pedicle screw fixation and posterolateral bone graft) 4. Anterior lumbar interbody fusion (carried out through the abdomen, rather than from the back)
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