This statement is somewhat confusing: “Imaging has shown a bilateral pars defect …. Imaging has also shown a very mild spondylolithesis at the level below. MRI also showed a broad based disc bulge on L4/L5 and a small R sided extrusion and herniation on L5/S1 likely contacting the S1 nerve root. Both are fairly posterior in nature. EMG/NCS have been negative”.
A spondylolisthesis is generally related to a pars fracture (isthmic spondylolisthesis) at the fracture level. A mild slip (spondylolisthesis) at the level below would indicate a 2 level pars defect. Can you paste the radiological report here and we can go over it.
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.
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.