There are two separate problems that can occur when noted “l5 did not fuse that it is in two pieces instead of one”. This could be a spina bifida occulta where the back arch of the vertebra did not fuse leaving a slightly open channel or an isthmic spondylolisthesis where fractures have occurred in the side of the vertebra.
A spina bifida occulta is a non-problem and an isthmic spondylolisthesis needs to be looked after.
Dr. Corenman
PLEASE REMEMBER, THIS FORUM IS MEANT TO PROVIDE GENERAL INFORMATION ON SPINE ANATOMY, CONDITIONS AND TREATMENTS. TO GET AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS, YOU MUST VISIT A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL IN PERSON.
Donald Corenman, MD, DC is a highly-regarded spine surgeon, considered an expert in the area of neck and back pain. Trained as both a Medical Doctor and Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Corenman earned academic appointments as Clinical Assistant Professor and Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and his research on spine surgery and rehabilitation has resulted in the publication of multiple peer-reviewed articles and two books.
