Spondylolysis

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A ~~spondylolysis~~Spondylolysis is a defect in the pars interarticularis of the neural arch, the portion of the neural arch that connects the superior and inferior articular facets.

Aetiology and epidemiology

Spondylolysis is believed to be caused by repeated microtrauma, resulting in stress fracture of the pars interarticularis. Heredity also is believed to be a factor. It is more common in men than in women¹.

Associations

spina bifida occulta
patients with bilateral pars defects can progress to spondylolisthesis.

Clinical presentation

Spondylolysis is commonly asymptomatic. Symptomatic patients often have pain with extension and/or rotation of the lumbar spine. Approximately 25% of individuals with spondylolysis have symptoms at some time.

Radiographic features

Plain film

lateral views are most sensitive for detection of pars fractures, and the oblique views are most specific.
"scottie dog" appearance on oblique radiographs: a break in the pars interarticularis can have the appearance of a collar around the dog's neck.
approximately 95% of cases of spondylolysis occur at the L5 level.
the process may be unilateral or bilateral.

-<p>A <strong>spondylolysis</strong> is a defect in the<a href="/articles/pars-interarticularis"> pars interarticularis </a>of the neural arch, the portion of the neural arch that connects the superior and inferior articular facets.</p><h4>Aetiology and epidemiology</h4><p>Spondylolysis is believed to be caused by repeated microtrauma, resulting in stress fracture of the pars interarticularis. Heredity also is believed to be a factor. It is more common in men than in women<sup>1</sup>.</p><h5>Associations</h5><ul>
+<p><strong>Spondylolysis</strong> is a defect in the<a href="/articles/pars-interarticularis"> pars interarticularis </a>of the neural arch, the portion of the neural arch that connects the superior and inferior articular facets.</p><h4>Aetiology and epidemiology</h4><p>Spondylolysis is believed to be caused by repeated microtrauma, resulting in stress fracture of the pars interarticularis. Heredity also is believed to be a factor. It is more common in men than in women<sup> 1</sup>.</p><h5>Associations</h5><ul>
~~-<li>"scottie dog" appearance on oblique radiographs : a break in the pars interarticularis can have the appearance of a collar around the dog's neck.</li>~~
+<li>"scottie dog" appearance on oblique radiographs: a break in the pars interarticularis can have the appearance of a collar around the dog's neck.</li>

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