Congenital Pedicle Defect

Findings:

Grade 1 anterolisthesis is present at L5 S1 on lateral radiograph. The MR images performed in the supine position demonstrate less conspicuous anterolisthesis and intact bilateral L5 pars interarticularis. The bilateral L5 pedicles are not visible.

Discussion:

When anterolisthesis is seen in the absence of significant disc disease or obvious facet hypertrophy, most commonly underlying chronic pars interarticularis defects are considered. Other causes of congenital anterolisthesis exist, including bone defects in other regions of the posterior elements such as the pedicles.

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