Natural history of spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis

Spondylolysis refers to a defect in the pars interarticularis of the vertebrae; spondyolisthesis, or a slippage of one vertebral body on another, can result from spondylolysis or other conditions. Both conditions may be a cause of low back pain, but are also commonly seen as incidental findings in asymptomatic patients. The natural history of these conditions is important to understand in order to counsel patients and determine a course of action when either diagnosis is made, and varies based upon etiology as well as patient characteristics.