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Semin Neurol 2002; 22(2): 187-196
DOI: 10.1055/s-2002-36542
Copyright © 2002 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

The Lumbar Zygapophyseal (Facet) Joints: A Role in the Pathogenesis of Spinal Pain Syndromes and Degenerative Spondylolisthesis

Sigurd Berven, Bobby B.K. Tay, William Colman, Serena S. Hu
  • 1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
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Publication History

Publication Date:
13 January 2003 (online)

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ABSTRACT

The zygapophyseal joints in the lumbar spine are important structural components contributing to the stability of the lumbar motion segments. Pathology of the zygapophyseal joints in the lumbar spine may be a significant cause of low back pain and segmental instability within the lumbar spine. Management of pathology related to the zygapophyseal joints remains a difficult challenge for the physician caring for patients with spinal disorders. Future investigations with tissue engineering, ligamentous reconstructions, and intervertebral disc replacement or regeneration may have useful applications in the treatment of zygapophyseal joint pathology.

KEYWORDS

Zygapophyseal joint - low back pain - lumbar instability - spondylolisthesis

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