• A grade 4 spondylolisthesis at the level of L-4 and L-5 was detected in a 3-year-old girl who had a spastic gait and focal sensory deficit. There was no history or objective evidence of substantial spinal trauma. A deformity over the lower part of the spine had been noted at 1 year of age and the radiological lesion was more extensive than that found in classical spondylolysis. Consequently, a diagnosis of congenital spondylolisthesis is most acceptable. Treatment via combined posterior and posterolateral fusion following anterior decompression has yielded gratifying results.
(Am J Dis Child 129:967-969, 1975)