Bilateral C6 spondylolysis with spondylolisthesis in 3 adolescent siblings

J Pediatr Orthop. 2014 Oct-Nov;34(7):e40-3. doi: 10.1097/BPO.0000000000000175.

Abstract

Background: Cervical spondylolysis with spondylolisthesis is a rare condition in the pediatric population. The nature of this condition and clinical presentation are important to provide appropriate management.

Methods: This is a case report of 3 adolescent siblings who had C6 cervical spondylolysis with spondylolisthesis.

Results: Two cases were diagnosed insidiously with absence of neurological deficits and no instability on imaging and were treated conservatively. One case had a traumatic presentation associated with instability on imaging and was managed with cervical fusion and instrumentation. All 3 patients were doing well on a follow-up of >2 years.

Conclusions: These cases suggest that cervical spondylolysis could be familial. The treatment was offered based on clinical presentation and presence of instability on radiographic studies.

Level of evidence: Level IV.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Cervical Vertebrae*
  • Child
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods
  • Male
  • Siblings*
  • Spinal Fusion / methods*
  • Spondylolisthesis / complications*
  • Spondylolisthesis / diagnosis
  • Spondylolisthesis / surgery
  • Spondylolysis / complications*
  • Spondylolysis / diagnosis
  • Spondylolysis / surgery
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods