Skip to main content
Log in

Paradoxical motion in spondylolisthesis due to two-segment instability

  • Current Problem Case
  • Published:
Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

We report here a paradoxical motion in unstable spondylolytic spondylolisthesis: a more forward displacement of the L5 vertebral body on the sacrum on the standing extension view than on the standing flexion view. An axial loading through the inferior articular process of the posteriorly displaced L4 on extension appears to be the cause, while the instability in the two contiguous segments may be an important contributing factor.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this article

Price excludes VAT (USA)
Tax calculation will be finalised during checkout.

Instant access to the full article PDF.

Similar content being viewed by others

References

  1. Gianturco C (1944) A roentgen analysis of the motion of the lower back vertebrae in normal individuals and in patients with low back pain. AJR 52:261–268

    Google Scholar 

  2. Meschan I (1946) A radiographic study of spondylolisthesis with special reference to stability determination. Radiology 47:249–262

    Google Scholar 

  3. Penning L, Blickman JR (1980) Instability in lumbar spondylolisthesis: a radiologic study of several concepts. AJR 134:293–301

    Google Scholar 

  4. Troup JDG (1976) Mechanical factors in spondylolisthesis and spondylolysis. Clin Orthop 117:59–67

    Google Scholar 

Download references

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

Authors

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Cite this article

Ehara, S., Shimamura, T. Paradoxical motion in spondylolisthesis due to two-segment instability. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 116, 435–436 (1997). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00434009

Download citation

  • Received:

  • Issue Date:

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00434009

Keywords

Navigation