The role of diagnostic imaging in detecting spondylolisthesis.

Abstract

Spondylolisthesis is a very common condition. It is the forward slipping of one vertebra over the other as a result of several factors e.g. Spondylolisis. This affects the vertebral column, mostly the lumbar region. It is one of the main causes of back pain. The treatment for this condition depends on the degree of displacement. Treatment varies from wearing a back support to spinal fusion. Therefore as in every other pathology early diagnosis is a must for better patient management.

This research project was performed in order to compare the different diagnostic imaging modalities suitable to rule out spondylolisthesis. In the literature review six imaging modalities will be discussed. These are the following; Plain Radiography, Computerised Tomography (CT) and Computerised Myelography (CM), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Bone Scan and Single Photon Emission Tomography (SPECT). Through this study, it was found that CT is mainly the appropriate imaging modality to diagnose this pathology. The reasons for being so will be mentioned throughout the study. However, when evaluating the spine the use of different imaging modalities would further increase the value ofthe diagnosis.

On the study performed, recommendations are proposed on how different diagnostic imaging modalities may be utilised to achieve the best diagnosis with the least possible dose where applicable.