What is the Difference Between Anterolisthesis and Spondylolisthesis?

Anterolisthesis and spondylolisthesis are both conditions related to the improper positioning of vertebrae in the spine. The main difference between the two is the direction in which the vertebra slips:

Anterolisthesis: The vertebral body moves forward in relation to the vertebra it sits above.
Spondylolisthesis: The vertebral body can move either forward (anterolisthesis) or backward (retrolisthesis) in relation to the vertebra it sits above.

Both conditions can lead to pain, discomfort, and nerve compression, depending on the severity and the surrounding structures impacted. They can be caused by various factors, including:

Congenital defects in the vertebra.
Aging and wear and tear on the spine.
Traumatic events, such as a high-impact injury.
Pathologic conditions, such as tumors.

Treatment for anterolisthesis and spondylolisthesis typically depends on the severity of the condition and may include conservative treatments like rest, special exercises, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. In more severe cases, epidural injections, a combination of ice/heat, or even surgery may be required.

On this page

What is the Difference Between Anterolisthesis and Spondylolisthesis?

Comparative Table: Anterolisthesis vs Spondylolisthesis

Anterolisthesis and spondylolisthesis are both spinal conditions that involve the slippage of vertebrae. Here is a table summarizing the differences between the two:

Feature	Anterolisthesis	Spondylolisthesis
Definition	Forward slippage of a vertebra in the spine	Forward or backward slippage of a vertebra in the spine
Causes	Blunt trauma, fractures secondary to road traffic accidents or falls, intensive physical exercise, aging	Blunt trauma, fractures secondary to road traffic accidents or falls, congenital or acquired causes
Diagnosis	Physical examination, radiologic findings on X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans	Physical examination, radiologic findings on X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans (including lateral flexion-extension plain films)
Treatment	Mild to moderate cases: bed rest, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, and steroids, physiotherapy. Severe cases may require surgery.	Mild to moderate cases: similar to anterolisthesis, with additional exercises like leg lifts. Severe cases may require surgery.

In summary, the main difference between anterolisthesis and spondylolisthesis is the direction of slippage: anterolisthesis involves forward slippage, while spondylolisthesis involves forward or backward slippage of vertebrae.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.