Palsy of the L5 nerval root following reduction of high degree spondylolisthesis and spondyloptosis

Temporary or persistent paralysis of the fifth lumbar nerve root have been frequently reported as complications following reposition of high degree spondylolisthesis. According to an outcome analysis of sixty-four patients, we found an increased incidence of motor damages after reduction of Meyerding degree four anterolisthesis or spondyloptosis. There were no signs of intradural root compression or nerve injury tracable. In order to detect extraforaminal strictures, the anatomic course of the lumbosacral plexus and its relation to neighbouring structures, especially pelvivertebral connective tissue junctions were recorded in cadavric measurements. Beside an number of variations In origin and course of the iliolumbar ligament complex, we observed a junction between os sacrum and the anterior part of the fifth lumbar vertebrae in 14/30 specimen, constantly running anterior to the fifth lumbar nerve root. In addition the nerve was fixed to the sacral periostium a few centimeters distal this crossing in about 20% of all cases. Pathophysiological effects were measured in reposition trials, using a continous pressure monitoring system. A reposition of more than 20 mm resulted in a perineural pressure > 30 mmHg. This caused a nerve fiber deformation at the edge of the compressed nerve segment. Increased pressure leads to a nodular displacement of perineural fat as well as intraneural fascicles.