Name of the Condition

• Spondylolisthesis, lumbosacral region
• Medical term: Spondylolisthesis in the lower spine.

Summary

Spondylolisthesis in the lumbosacral region is a spinal condition where one of the vertebrae slips out of place onto the bone below it. It is commonly found in the lower spine and can lead to pain and mobility issues.

Causes

• Genetic predisposition leading to weaker vertebrae.
• Degenerative changes due to aging.
• Repeated stress from physical activities, such as gymnastics or weightlifting.
• Trauma or injury to the spine.

Risk Factors

• Advanced age.
• Family history of spinal disorders.
• Engaging in sports or activities that place stress on the lower back.
• Existing spinal conditions like arthritis.

Symptoms

• Lower back pain.
• Stiffness or tenderness in the back.
• Pain that spreads to the legs or buttocks.
• Muscle tightness or spasms in the hamstrings.

Diagnosis

• Physical examination by a healthcare professional.
• Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to assess vertebral alignment.

Treatment Options

• Medications: Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs to alleviate pain.
• Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen the back and reduce strain.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgical intervention might be necessary to realign and stabilize the vertebrae.
• Braces: To provide support and limit motion if advised by a doctor.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With appropriate treatment, many individuals experience symptom relief.
• Regular follow-ups are crucial to monitor spinal health and adjust treatments as needed.
• The success of treatment often depends on adherence to therapy and lifestyle changes.

Complications

• Chronic pain if untreated.
• Nerve damage leading to neurological deficits.
• Decreased mobility or capability to perform daily activities.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Engage in regular, low-impact exercises to maintain spinal health.
• Practice proper body mechanics during lifting or other strenuous activities.
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the spine.
• Consider ergonomic improvements in work environments to support spinal posture.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Sudden or worsening back pain.
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs.
• Loss of bladder or bowel control, which may indicate a serious complication.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) website
• Spondylolisthesis Association - patient support resources.

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure correct ICD-10 code M43.17 is used specifically for spondylolisthesis in the lumbosacral region.
• Double-check medical records for severity and specific location to avoid misclassification.
• Avoid confusion with similar conditions such as spinal stenosis or disc herniation during coding.