What are the two most common etiologies for spondylolisthesis?

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Multiple Choice

What are the two most common etiologies for spondylolisthesis?

Explanation:
Two main processes explain most spondylolisthesis cases: isthmic and degenerative. Isthmic spondylolisthesis comes from a defect in the pars interarticularis, typically a stress fracture from repetitive extension or loading. This weakness allows one vertebra, often at the lumbosacral junction, to slip forward, and it is especially common in adolescents and young adults like athletes. Degenerative spondylolisthesis arises from aging-related wear of the spine—degeneration of the facet joints and intervertebral discs reduces posterior support—so slippage occurs more easily, most often in older adults at the L4–L5 level. These two pathways together account for the majority of cases across the lifespan, while congenital dysplastic forms, traumatic injuries, or inflammatory conditions are far less common contributors.

Two main processes explain most spondylolisthesis cases: isthmic and degenerative. Isthmic spondylolisthesis comes from a defect in the pars interarticularis, typically a stress fracture from repetitive extension or loading. This weakness allows one vertebra, often at the lumbosacral junction, to slip forward, and it is especially common in adolescents and young adults like athletes. Degenerative spondylolisthesis arises from aging-related wear of the spine—degeneration of the facet joints and intervertebral discs reduces posterior support—so slippage occurs more easily, most often in older adults at the L4–L5 level. These two pathways together account for the majority of cases across the lifespan, while congenital dysplastic forms, traumatic injuries, or inflammatory conditions are far less common contributors.

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