Abstract
A 12-year-old boy had lumbago and a left leg pain, presenting an antalgic gait. The lumbar X-ray film showed L5 spondylolisthesis of 100% slip. After evaluating the state of the cauda equina by myelograms and MRI, we tried reduction by traction, but in vain due to a severe pain. Therefore, we performed such an operation as follows. First, by the posterior approach, we sufficiently released both L5 and S1 nerve roots and set pedicular screws. Although we, after that, accomplished the anterior release by almost complete transection of anterior longtudinal ligament, we additionally had to do partial spondylectomy to achieve reduction. Then, we did anterior interbody fusion, and fixed pedicular screws with rods. He is now able to enjoy a normal school life one year after surgery. We think that not only the posterior-and-anterior combined approach but also partial spondylectomy shall be considered for the reduction of severe spondylolisthesis.
