What is the most common level for a degenerative spondylolisthesis?

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Multiple Choice

What is the most common level for a degenerative spondylolisthesis?

Degenerative spondylolisthesis results from age-related wear of the lumbar spine, especially disc height loss and facet joint degeneration, which allow one vertebra to slip forward on the one below. The slip most commonly occurs between the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae because this junction bears high shear forces and has facet joints oriented in a way that favors anterior translation as degeneration progresses. This combination makes the L4–L5 level the typical site for the forward slip. Levels above or below are less commonly involved, though they can be affected in some individuals.

Degenerative spondylolisthesis results from age-related wear of the lumbar spine, especially disc height loss and facet joint degeneration, which allow one vertebra to slip forward on the one below. The slip most commonly occurs between the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae because this junction bears high shear forces and has facet joints oriented in a way that favors anterior translation as degeneration progresses. This combination makes the L4–L5 level the typical site for the forward slip. Levels above or below are less commonly involved, though they can be affected in some individuals.

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