Iatrogenic spondylolisthesis is typically seen where?

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Multiple Choice

Iatrogenic spondylolisthesis is typically seen where?

When a spinal segment is fused, that part no longer moves, so the segments next to it have to take on more motion and bear altered stresses. Over time, this added load accelerates degeneration of the adjacent discs and facet joints, which can lead to instability and slipping of a vertebra relative to the one below. This is why iatrogenic spondylolisthesis typically occurs at the segments adjacent to a fused level. It’s about the neighboring, unfused parts bearing the burden after fusion, not about slipping within the fused segment. While it can occur in different regions, the hallmark site is the adjacent segment next to the fusion—above or below the fused area.

When a spinal segment is fused, that part no longer moves, so the segments next to it have to take on more motion and bear altered stresses. Over time, this added load accelerates degeneration of the adjacent discs and facet joints, which can lead to instability and slipping of a vertebra relative to the one below. This is why iatrogenic spondylolisthesis typically occurs at the segments adjacent to a fused level. It’s about the neighboring, unfused parts bearing the burden after fusion, not about slipping within the fused segment. While it can occur in different regions, the hallmark site is the adjacent segment next to the fusion—above or below the fused area.

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