Professional
Technical
IVT
spondylolysis
Pronunciation: spon-dih-loh-LIE-sis
A stress fracture or defect in the pars interarticularis of a vertebra.
Full Definition
A condition characterized by a stress fracture or developmental defect in the pars interarticularis, the narrow bridge of bone connecting the upper and lower facet joints of a vertebra. This condition is most common at the L5 level and can be unilateral or bilateral. Spondylolysis may progress to spondylolisthesis if the vertebra slips forward. It is particularly common in adolescent athletes participating in sports requiring repetitive hyperextension of the spine.
Usage
Usage note: Frequently confused with spondylolisthesis (vertebral slippage) and spondylosis (degenerative changes).
In Context
- "Bilateral spondylolysis at L5 was identified on CT imaging." — Radiology report
- "The young gymnast developed spondylolysis from repetitive hyperextension activities." — Clinical case study
Also known as
pars defect
pars fracture
Don't confuse with
spondylolisthesis
spondylosis