Surgery for spondylolisthesis is critical for those with chronic back pain and mobility issues. This spinal condition occurs when one vertebra slips forward over the vertebra below it. The slippage can happen at any level of the spine, but most commonly affects the lower back.
Many patients find relief through conservative treatments like physical therapy, but some require surgery. Understanding when surgery becomes necessary helps patients make informed decisions about their treatment.
When Surgery for Spondylolisthesis is Needed
Doctors usually try non-surgical treatments first before thinking about surgery. These include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medicines, and steroid shots. Most patients spend months trying these options.
However, surgery for spondylolisthesis may be needed because of the following:
Pain That Does Not Go Away
Surgery may be considered if non-surgical treatments do not work after six months or more. If the pain is severe and makes it hard to do daily tasks, surgery might help. This pain often starts in the lower back, spreads to the legs, and gets worse when standing or walking.
Nerve Problems
Surgery is often needed if the slipped vertebra presses on nerves or the spinal cord. This can cause numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs. Some people may have trouble walking or controlling their bladder or bowels.
If nerve problems get worse, quick action is important. Waiting too long can cause permanent nerve damage. Doctors may suggest surgery right away if there are serious signs of nerve compression.
Severe Slippage and Instability
Doctors use imaging tests to see how far the vertebra has slipped and how stable the spine is. Spondylolisthesis is graded from I to IV, with Grades III and IV being the most severe. These often need surgery to stabilize the spine.
If the slippage keeps getting worse, surgery can stop further damage. This is especially important for young patients with severe cases, as their condition can worsen without treatment.
Is Spondylolisthesis Surgery Major Surgery?
Yes, spondylolisthesis surgery qualifies as major surgery. This is due to its complexity and recovery requirements. However, advances in surgical techniques have made procedures safer and less invasive.
Compared to traditional open surgery, minimally invasive approaches reduce:
- Tissue damage
- Blood loss
- Recovery time
Options for Surgery for Spondylolisthesis
Surgeons use different techniques to treat spondylolisthesis based on the following factors:
- How severe the slippage is
- The patient’s age
- Overall health
- Symptoms
Here are the available options:
Spinal Fusion Surgery
Spinal fusion is the most common treatment for spondylolisthesis. It stabilizes the slipped vertebra by permanently joining it to nearby vertebrae. Surgeons use bone grafts, either from the patient’s hip or a bone bank, to help new bone grow.
Metal screws, rods, and plates hold the vertebrae in place while the bone heals. The fusion process takes months as new bone forms around the graft, creating a strong, stable connection that stops further slippage.
Fusion surgery is highly effective, with success rates over 90% for the right patients. Surgeons can perform it in different ways depending on the case.
Decompression Surgery
Decompression surgery, or laminectomy, relieves pressure on nerves. The procedure achieves this by removing bone or tissue pressing on them. Surgeons trim parts of the lamina — the bony arch over the spinal canal — to create more space for nerves.
This procedure is often combined with fusion surgery. Removing bone can make the spine less stable, so fusion helps ensure long-term stability. Together, these surgeries address both nerve compression and slippage.
Minimally Invasive Techniques
Minimally invasive surgery has transformed spine treatments. These methods use smaller cuts, special tools, and advanced imaging. This lets the surgeon perform fusion or decompression with less tissue damage.
The benefits of this technique include the following:
- Less blood loss
- Shorter hospital stays
- Faster recovery
- Less pain after surgery
Patients can often return to activities sooner. However, not all cases are suitable for these techniques.
Advanced tools like 3D imaging and robotic systems improve precision. They help surgeons place hardware more accurately and consistently. Minimally invasive methods continue to improve outcomes for many patients.
Recovery Timeline
Most patients recover in three to six months. Initial healing happens in the first few weeks, but full bone fusion takes several months. Activity levels are increased slowly with a doctor’s guidance.
Bone fusion usually starts about three months after surgery and can take six to twelve months to complete. Factors like smoking, diabetes, or other health issues can slow down healing.
Physical Therapy and Rehab
Physical therapy is key to recovery. Therapists create custom plans to improve core strength, flexibility, and movement. Recovery starts with gentle exercises and gradually becomes more challenging.
Early therapy focuses on managing pain and performing daily movements like walking, sitting, or climbing stairs. As healing continues, exercises help build strength and endurance.
Surgery for Spondylolisthesis in Lone Tree, Colorado Springs, Aurora, & Castle Rock, CO
Surgery for spondylolisthesis can greatly reduce pain and improve movement when other treatments do not work. The decision depends on how severe the symptoms are, imaging results, and overall health. Modern techniques make surgery more successful with shorter recovery times.
Trust the experienced spine specialists at Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery. We understand how spondylolisthesis can be. Our team combines advanced surgical techniques with personalized treatment approaches for the best care. Call us at (303) 790-1800 or use our online appointment request form to request a consultation today.
We look forward to serving you!
