While people often talk about a “slipped disc”, doctors do not ordinarily use that term. A spondylolisthesis is a true slippage of the spine. Spondylolisthesis comes from the Greek – spondylos, meaning “vertebra” and olisthesis, meaning “dislocation.” It occurs when one vertebra slips forward on the adjacent vertebrae. During this condition, one of the vertebrae in the spinal column can move out of place (sideways, backward or forward) in relation to the vertebra below. This can cause severe back pain and neurologic problems as a function of spinal instability.
When there is displacement of the vertebra the space in the spinal canal becomes narrow, this may also put pressure on adjacent nerves causing neurologic symptoms. Although spondylolisthesis can take place anywhere in the spine, the lower back (lumbar spine) is the most typical area affected. To learn more about Dr. Stieber's NYC spondylolisthesis surgery call today for your consultation.
This type of spondylolisthesis is caused by a fracture of the pars interarticularis or isthmus, the bony bridge that connects the facet joints. It is often associated with sports that involve repetitive stress to the lumbar vertebrae and/or entail hyperextension of the spine. If a defect in the pars interarticularis can be identified but no slippage has occurred, the condition is termed spondylolysis. If separation or displacement of this fracture occurs, the vertebra will disconnect from the facet joints that normally function to restrain the spine and maintain normal spinal alignment. The resulting slippage of the vertebrae is termed a spondylolisthesis.
This type of spondylolisthesis is most often seen in older patients. In degenerative spondylolisthesis, there is no pars defect, and the vertebral slippage is seldom greater than 50%. This type of slippage is caused by arthritis of the paired facet joints in the back of the spine, along with degeneration of the intervertebral disc. Arthritis of the joints can cause the joints to wear away, fit loosely, and be painful. This may create instability of the spine with slippage of the vertebrae and further wear and tear on the intervertebral disc.
This condition is present from birth and is caused by abnormal bone formation in the spine. Spinal misalignment puts the vertebrae at greater risk for slipping out of place.
This condition is brought on by infection, abnormal growth such as tumors that can create bone weakness or any type of bone disease (e.g., osteoporosis).
Vertebrae can become displaced as a result of surgery.
Direct injury to the spine can cause spinal fractures or displacement of vertebrae.
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I wanted to personally write to you as well as Bethany, Nancy, and Jennifer, to thank you so much. Not to sound overly dramatic but living with that pain for years, then having that surgery end of Nov. and feeling like a new person- you certainly changed my life! I know I’ve said this befor...
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Dr Stieber fixed me from extreme pain and has such a great way about him. I’ve got nothing but the best to say about him and his team. I am a new person and my recovery was very quick due to his work. After 3 weeks, I was back in the gym doing light workouts. The man is great!
Dr. Stieber performed a MIS TLIF at L4 / L5 in January 2015. At a year and a half, I am pain free and doing well. The man is a life saver. I have and will continue to recommend him to anyone experiencing back pain.
I am a 69 year old male, who up until 5 years ago, walked 3-5 miles per day. Lower back pain became such an issue that I could hardly walk 100 feet before I had to stop. After consulting with 5 different neurosurgeons, with no positive results, Dr. Stieber was referred to me by a friend. I met wi...
Dr Stieber changed my life, I went from being in constant pain to no pain at all and from being almost unable to work to working full time. The surgery was surprisingly almost painless and my recovery quick, His staff always was available to speak to me when I had questions or concerns and were v...
I have been in pain for over a decade. I no longer am. Dr. Stieber changed my life.
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You operated on my spine and enabled me to walk again — which is no small thing. I want you to know that even though a year has passed (88 in my case). I will remember you not only as a fine surgeon but as an impeccable dresser and a real nice guy.
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From your ability to communicate complicated MRI images and medical jargon in a way that made perfect sense to me, to your honesty and candid demeanor, to your ability to empathize, and obviously your extraordinary skill as a spine surgeon…
This time last year I was in so much pain I could not enjoy the holidays with my family. You have changed that for me this year. Thank you is not enough. When I walk down the street and I realize I have walked more than two blocks without pain, I thank God and you, I feel great, you are the BEST!...
I thank you with all my heart and my family’s too. If it wasn’t for your wonderful gift of your hands I would not be walking today.
You identified my condition, arrived at a solution… and most importantly repaired my lower spine. Every morning when I arise pain free, know that I am so very grateful to you and your skillful hands. Thank you for restoring my health. Now I can begin to live again.
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Dr. Stieber and his entire staff are the best. From scheduling, appointments, surgery and post op, they are top notch. Doctor Stieber is a very smart and a highly skilled surgeon.
I’m living a new life after the surgery. The whole team was impressive. Very responsive, clear and supportive.
Incredible team from the desk, techs, PA to the magical hands of the surgeon. Always trust a surgeon with great hair.
Dr Stieber performed a discectomy on a Tuesday. I was able to go back to the office the next day. i was told the pain would be reduced at least 95%. That was on the mark!
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Most individuals with spondylolisthesis experience pain when walking, bending backward, and standing. Symptoms include:
Dr. Stieber’s goal is aimed toward restoring spinal stability and preventing ongoing damage to the nerves. We focus on early detection and diagnosis.
The degree of vertebral slippage is obtained from spinal x-rays and graded as follows:
Grade I: 1-25%
Grade II: 26-50%
Grade III: 51-75%
Grade IV: 76%-99% slip.
Grade V: Complete slip (100%), known as spondyloptosis.
Some cases of spondylolisthesis can be handled with short-term bed rest, activity restriction, medication, and other non-operative options. If your condition does not improve with conservative treatment, Dr. Stieber's NYC spondylolisthesis surgery can help to relieve pain and increase the level of function in your daily activities. Spinal fusion is typically necessary to stop any slip progression and stabilize the spine. Dr. Stieber employs the most current minimally-invasive techniques when spinal stabilization is required allowing shorter hospital stays, decreased pain, more rapid recovery, and a return to an active lifestyle.
Dr. Stieber considers all your symptoms when determining treatment, this would include the degree of displacement and other factors such as unmanageable pain and neurological symptoms. Most cases of spondylolisthesis are Grade I or II. As a general rule, more extreme slips (Grades III and higher) are dangerous conditions and require surgical intervention even when they do not cause symptoms. Dr. Stieber prides himself in delivering among the top spondylolisthesis surgery New York has to offer and as always, he and his staff ensure that all patient questions and concerns are thoroughly addressed.
NYC spine surgery specialist, Dr. Jonathan Stieber, provides his patients with the most effective treatment options available, all of which are tailored to meet your individual needs. With Dr. Stieber guiding your care, it is possible to say goodbye to pain and enjoy an active lifestyle once again.
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