IMPORTANT: We currently have a number of bugs related to image cropping and are actively trying to resolve them. In the meantime, we have disabled cropping. Apologies for any inconvenience. Stay informed: radiopaedia.org/chat

Anterolisthesis

Case contributed by Jeremy Jones
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Lumbar back pain and progressive deformity. No neurology.

Patient Data

Age: 14 years
Gender: Male
x-ray

There is complete malalignment of the lumbosacral junction with almost complete anterior displacement of L5 on S1.

ct

The CT confirms the plain film finding of anterior displacement of L5 on S1. The shape of L5 and associated sclerosis confirms that this is a longstanding abnormality.

mri

As demonstrated on the CT and plain film, there is almost complete anterior displacement of L5 on S1. L5 is abnormal and there is marked loss of height posteriorly suggesting a longstanding process. Normal cord and canal.

Case Discussion

There is almost complete anterior displacement of L5 on S1. The shape of L5 with reduced posterior height and associated sclerosis (on the CT) suggest that this is the result of a longstanding progressive anterolisthesis secondary to bilateral pars defects. There is no underlying vertebral abnormality and the bone density appears normal.

Even when there is this degree of anterolisthesis, the spinal canal is not compromised.

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.