Retrolisthesis

Last revised by Daniel J Bell on 8 Feb 2021

The term retrolisthesis (less commonly known as retrospondylolisthesis or posterolisthesis, or reverse vertebral slip) refers to posterior displacement of a vertebral body relative to the caudal vertebral body.

Pathology

Causes include:

  • trauma
  • facet joint osteoarthritis
  • congenital anomalies: e.g. pedicle underdevelopment

Radiographic features

Lateral spinal radiographs are able to characterize spinal alignment, including the presence of retrolisthesis. MRI has a role in assessing any consequent neurological compression due to resultant foraminal stenosis or spinal canal stenosis.

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