Radiographic Analysis of Spondylolisthesis and Sagittal Spinopelvic Deformity

J Am Acad Orthop Surg April 2012 Ying Li

Abstract Traditional radiographic analysis of spondylolisthesis focuses on the regional sagittal deformity at the lumbosacral junction. Pelvic morphology has also been cited as an important factor that contributes to the development of high-grade spondylolisthesis. However, the importance of global sagittal balance of the spine and pelvis in patients with spondylolisthesis has been emphasized recently. Patients with this condition can develop abnormal sagittal spinopelvic balance; restoration of sagittal spinal alignment can improve their health-related quality of life. Reduction has been used to restore alignment, but its role in the management of high-grade spondylolisthesis is controversial. None of the current classification systems take sagittal sacropelvic and spinopelvic balance into account. Improved understanding of the relationship between the spine and pelvis has led to the development of a new classification system that incorporates analysis of spinopelvic balance in the radiographic assessment. This new system may aid surgeons in identifying patients who would benefit from a partial reduction procedure.