Management of symptomatic degenerative low-grade lumbar spondylolisthesis

Abstract

• Degenerative low-grade lumbar spondylolisthesis is the most common form of spondylolisthesis. • The majority of patients are asymptomatic and do not require surgical intervention. • Symptomatic patients present with a combination of lower back pain, radiculopathy and/or neurogenic claudication and may warrant surgery if non-operative measures fail. • There is widespread controversy regarding the indications for surgery and appropriate treatment strategies for patients with this type of spondylolisthesis. • This article provides a comprehensive evidence-based review of the available literature to support the management of degenerative low-grade spondylolisthesis.