Treatment of spondyloptosis by two stage L5 vertebrectomy and reduction of L4 onto S1.

A new method of treatment of spondyloptosis is presented utilizing a staged approach. The first stage consists of a vertebral body resection of L5 along with the L4-5 and L5-S1 discs. The second stage procedure consists of removal of the loose posterior element, the articular processes, and pedicles of L5 and reduction of L4 onto the sacrum. The technique for the procedure is reviewed along with its results in two operated patients.