Best Doctors for Spondylolisthesis in Delhi

Types/Stages of Spondylolisthesis

Types of spondylolisthesis include:

• Congenital Spondylolisthesis: This is present at birth due to abnormal spine development leading to a slipped vertebra at some point in life.

• Isthmic Spondylolisthesis: This is a tiny fracture in the bone (pars interarticularis) that connects the back joints of the spine, common in younger demographics.

• Degenerative Spondylolisthesis: This is most common in older adults and occurs due to the degeneration of the spinal discs and ligaments from ageing.

• Traumatic Spondylolisthesis: This is caused by sudden and extreme trauma to the vertebrae, leading to misalignment and slippage of the vertebrae.

• Pathologic Spondylolisthesis: It results from underlying conditions like bone diseases, spinal tumours, or osteoporosis, weakening the spine and causing vertebral misalignment.

• Iatrogenic Spondylolisthesis: It is caused by surgical errors that weaken the spinal structure, leading to spondylolisthesis

  Spondylolisthesis is classified into different grades based on the severity of vertebral slippage, ranging from Grade I with less than 25% slippage to Grade V, where the vertebral body completely falls off, known as spondyloptosis.

Symptoms of Spondylolisthesis

Doctors specialising in spondylolisthesis grade this condition from 1 to 5 based on the extent of vertebral slippage, with symptoms varying from mild to severe and potentially include:

• Lower back pain or stiffness

• Buttock or leg pain

• Tight hamstrings cause difficulty in walking or running

• Weakness in the legs

• In severe cases, loss of control over bowel and bladder functions

• Increased inward curve of the spine, known as lordosis

Tests to Diagnose Spondylolisthesis

At Apollo Hospitals in Delhi, doctors specialising in spondylolisthesis treatment may use the following diagnostic tests:

• X-rays: This provides detailed images of the spine’s bones, aiding in detecting vertebral slippage.

• MRI scans: This visualises the nerves and soft tissues surrounding the spine, assessing compression or damage.

• CT scans: This provides detailed cross-sectional views of the spinal column, detailing bone structure and potential defects.

• Physical examination: This assesses range of motion, muscle strength, and reflexes.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Spondylolisthesis at Apollo Hospitals, Delhi

Apollo Hospitals in Delhi offers premier care and advanced treatment options for patients with spondylolisthesis, including both nonsurgical and surgical options. Based on the severity, the doctors specialising in spondylolisthesis may recommend:

• Non-surgical methods: These include physical therapy, pain relief medications like over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, weight management, and the usage of back braces to manage the condition.

• Epidural Steroid Injections: These are administered to alleviate pain and inflammation in the affected region.

• Surgery: In more severe cases or when nonsurgical methods fail, spinal fusion surgery, laminectomy, artificial disc replacement, and decompression are performed by skilled surgery doctors for spondylolisthesis to stabilise the spine and alleviate chronic pain or nerve damage.