Spondylolisthesis Treatment: When Fusion Is Needed
Spondylolisthesis means one vertebra has slipped forward on the one below it, either from a stress fracture (isthmic) or from wear of the facet joints (degenerative). The slip narrows the canal and can pinch nerves, causing back pain and sciatica or stenosis symptoms.
Many people with a stable, low-grade slip do well without surgery. When there is instability with progressive symptoms, a minimally invasive fusion stabilizes the segment and decompresses the nerves through small incisions, with far less muscle disruption than traditional open fusion.
Symptoms
- Low back pain worse with standing and arching
- Sciatica or leg symptoms with walking
- Tight hamstrings
- A visible step in the lower back (high-grade slips)
How it is diagnosed
Standing and flexion-extension X-rays to measure slip and motion; MRI for nerve compression.
Treatment options
Without surgery
Physical therapy, core strengthening, injections, bracing in selected cases.
Surgical options Dr. Daggubati offers
- MIS transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)
- Lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF/XLIF)
- Navigated and robotic screw placement
Common questions
Is fusion permanent? Will I lose motion?
The fused segment no longer moves, but one or two lumbar levels contribute only a small portion of overall flexibility. Most patients notice more freedom, not less, because pain no longer limits them.
Not sure this is you?
Bring your imaging and your story. A single visit usually clarifies what is going on and which options are realistic. Request an appointment or call (301) 718-9611.