All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
What causes spondylolisthesis?
Medical expert of the article
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
The development and progression of spondylolisthesis is determined by the following factors:
- sagittal spinopelvic imbalance;
- dysplasia of the lumbosacral spine (spina bifida, hypoplasia of the articular processes, hypoplasia of the transverse processes, hypoplasia of the vertebral arches), high position of the L5 vertebra relative to the bispinal line;
- trapezoidal deformation of the body of the displaced vertebra and dome-shaped deformation of the upper surface of the body of the underlying vertebra;
- instability of the lumbosacral segment;
- the appearance and progression of degenerative changes in the intervertebral disc at the level of displacement.
The classification of spondylolisthesis according to Meyerding is based on the degree of displacement of the vertebral body relative to the surface of the underlying vertebral body, which is established on the basis of radiographs of the spine in the lateral projection:
- I degree - the posterior edge of the displaced vertebra corresponds to the surface of the body of the underlying vertebra;
- II degree - 2/4;
- III degree - 3/4;
- IV degree - on the entire surface of the body of the underlying vertebra;
- spondyloptosis - the posterior edge of the body of the displaced vertebra is located beyond the surface of the body of the underlying vertebra.