Background:
There are only 20 reported cases of cervical isthmic spondylolisthesis in literature that have been surgically managed either anteriorly or posteriorly. Herein, we report such a case managed with circumferential fusion.
Case description:
A 27-year-old male became progressively quadriparetic due to cervical isthmic spondylolisthesis at the C6-C7 level. Removal of the posterior arch of C6 with subsequent C5-C7 pedicle screw/rod fixation and anterior interbody fusion resulted in marked recovery and adequate cervical realignment.
Conclusion:
For patients with cervical isthmic spondylolisthesis, circumferential fusion provides the best surgical option to achieve stability and sagittal balance.