Traumatic Lateral Spondyloptosis of the Lumbar Spine: A Case Series and Comprehensive Literature Review

Abstract

Introduction: Lateral spondyloptosis of the lumbar spine is a rare and devastating form of traumatic spinal injury. Given the paucity of lumbar lateral spondyloptosis case reports in the literature, the authors seek to inform readers of the clinical, radiological, and operative considerations for three patients with this uncommon clinical presentation, as well as provide a comprehensive review of the literature on this topic. Methods: A retrospective chart review of three patients admitted to Regional One Health Elvis Presley Memorial Trauma Center in Memphis, TN, with traumatic lateral spondyloptosis of the lumbar spine over a three-year period was performed. We also conducted a comprehensive review of the literature on traumatic lateral lumbar spondyloptosis. Results: Three cases of traumatic lateral lumbar spondyloptosis were identified. Clinical presentation, radiographic findings, and operative considerations are presented. Conclusions: Traumatic lateral lumbar spondyloptosis is a rare form of translation injury associated with severe neurological deficits. Our experience and thorough literature review broadly advocate for early surgical intervention in these patients. Regardless of whether a neurologic exam is presented, this management strategy may improve neurologic motor outcomes.