A member asked:

What to do if i have just recently learned what to do if i have bilateral pars defect in l5, what does this mean?

4 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Dr. Peter Ihle answered

Specializes in Orthopedic Surgery

If it is painful: Then the question is congenital, degenerative & is it unstable. Also is its traumatic, this may be very unstable. See a fellowship trained spine surgeon for advice and care. Orthopedic surgeon is my choice but neurosurgeons undergo the same fellowships.

Answered 11/2/2015

2.1k views

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Spine defect known : As spondylolysis. Spondylo means spine ; lysis means crack. Can be congenital variety which is genetic in origin occuring in 6%-8% of us population or after trauma which can be repetitve particularly in certain high level athletes like swimmers, gymnasts, pitchers, football linemen, etc.. Most rx'ed non operatively ; cause no symptoms although some can lead to back ;/or leg pain or neuro symptom.

Answered 12/23/2013

4.7k views

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