treatment
Last reviewed 01/2018
The management of cervical spondylolisthesis involves:
- radiologically showing the displaced vertebra and it's position
Treatment depends upon the cause of the spondylisthesis and the presence of focal neurological signs:
- in inflammatory causes, displacement may be reduced by head traction for two weeks. The neck is immobilised in extension in a plaster jacket for two months. Atlanto-axial fusion may be necessary.
- in other causes, a plastic collar or a local fusion of the spine may be necessary according to the severity of neurological signs. Preliminary skull traction to reduce displacement is followed by operative fusion of affected spinal segments.