Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolysis, also known as a pars defect or stress fracture, is a condition where the pars interarticularis, a thin bone segment connecting two vertebrae, develops a stress fracture due to stress from repetitive movements, such as bending, twisting, or extension. The spine is composed of 24 small, rectangular vertebrae stacked to form a canal that safeguards the spinal cord. The lumbar spine, located in the lower back, is made up of five vertebrae. Each vertebrae has two pars interarticularis segments, one on the left and one on the right. Spondylolysis can occur in one or both sides of the vertebra. In severe cases the vertebra may be caused to shift out of place, a condition known as spondylolisthesis.

Spondylolysis refers to a defect in the pars interarticularis, while spondylolisthesis involves vertebral slippage. Spondylolysis is a common cause of low back pain in children and adolescents. Stress fractures in the lower back are common among adolescents engaged in high-impact sports like gymnastics, football, or weightlifting. This progression can lead to instability in the spine and may require medical attention.

Spondylolysis often has no symptoms, but when it does, back pain that feels like strained muscles is the most common complaint. Over time, this pain can extend into the thighs or buttocks. This pain often intensifies during physical activities or sports. Despite the discomfort, the pain rarely interferes with everyday tasks or routines. In some cases, spondylolysis affects the nerves, leading to muscle spasms or weakness, numbness, or tingling sensations. Symptoms can include pins-and-needles feelings or pain radiating to the back, neck, legs, thighs, or shoulders, depending on the affected area of the spine.

If a spondylolysis injury compresses a nerve root, it may trigger sciatica, a condition where pain originates in the lower back and extends down the back of one or both legs. This type of radiating pain is often sharp, shooting, or burning and may be accompanied by numbness or tingling sensations. Sciatica can interfere with walking, standing, or other daily activities, emphasizing the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment to relieve nerve compression and associated discomfort.

Surgical treatment for spondylolysis becomes an option when nonsurgical methods like bracing, physical therapy, corticosteroids, or rest fail. Surgical intervention aims to stabilize the affected vertebrae and provide relief from severe back pain

Eligible candidates for spondylolysis treatment include individuals with persistent back pain, limited mobility, or nerve-related symptoms, such as sciatica, that do not improve with rest, physical therapy, or medication. Athletes or active individuals whose condition affects performance may also qualify for surgery.

Pediatric scoliosis surgery usually involves spinal fusion, where the curved sections of the spine are straightened using rods, screws, and sometimes bone grafts. The procedure is done under general anaesthesia or epidural anaesthesia. In some cases, regional anaesthesia may be used in combination to target specific areas, helping with post-operative pain control. Scoliosis surgery takes 4 to 6 hours to complete.

• Patients typically wear a brace for stabilization during the initial healing phase (6–8 weeks). Regular check-ups to ensure proper healing and monitor progress.
• Refraining from activities such as lifting heavy objects, bending excessively, or engaging in intense physical exertion is critical in the initial months post-surgery. This minimizes the risk of re-injury.
• After surgery, patients will have scheduled follow-up visits to assess the healing of the spine.
• At Prospero medical, we provide regular follow-up for up to 6 months to 1 year after surgery, even after they have returned to their home countries. Patients should promptly report any issues they encounter during their recovery directly to our clinic even before consulting third-party specialists.

• Recovery from spondylolysis surgery may take several months.
• Prescribed pain medications help manage discomfort in the initial recovery phase.
• Patients are typically encouraged to start walking shortly after surgery.
• Early recovery requires rest and avoiding strenuous activities.
• Your doctor will guide your child on gradually resuming normal activities.
• Returning to active sports is only allowed with your surgeon or doctor’s approval.
• Most children need 1-2 weeks off school for recovery.

Turkey is not only a leader in many medical fields but also boasts a rich historical heritage and renowned hospitality. This combination makes it an exceptional destination for medical treatments. Choosing to undergo spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis repair surgery in Turkey comes with many benefits that might even surpass those available in your home country. These benefits include:

• Access to highly skilled doctors and well-established healthcare systems with extensive medical knowledge.
• Advanced, high-precision technology used in some of the best private hospitals globally.
• Post-operative care that reflects Turkish hospitality, ensuring a comfortable and supportive recovery.
• Competitive pricing that offers excellent value for high-quality medical care.
• An ideal setting for recovery, where physical therapy is incorporated to help speed recovery.

Choosing the right clinic for spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis surgery involves several important considerations. In the sea of commercial advertisements and social media sales pitches, finding the clinic that truly meets your needs can be a challenge. So, what should guide your decision-making process?

The key criteria to consider when shortlisting a clinic include:

• Clear, unbiased advice without commercial influence.
• A clinic that makes an effort to build rapport and truly understands the patient’s concerns.
• The clinic’s commitment to ensuring the patient’s health and safety is a priority.

When it comes to evaluating costs, it’s essential to consider the following aspects for an accurate pricing assessment:

• The reputation and professional standing of the clinic within the medical field.
• The nature and complexity of the surgical procedure being undertaken.
• The expertise and qualifications of the surgeon, as well as the quality of aftercare offered.
• Transparent and unbiased clinical liabilities outlined in a clear, legislative format.

Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis repair prices can vary depending on the above factors. While the price may be a key reason for considering surgery abroad, it’s crucial not to let cost outweigh quality. Failing to check if the clinic meets these important criteria can result in complications that may be costly to resolve. At Prospero Medical, we offer a transparent pricing policy that clearly outlines each service component, enabling patients to make educated decisions about their treatment. Our pricing is carefully calculated to reflect the high standards of care, surgeon qualifications, and comprehensive aftercare services. We are committed to providing top-tier medical services at a reasonable price that matches the level of expertise and care we offer.