Lumbar Bilateral Perched Facet Dislocation

Lumbar bilateral perched facet dislocation is a severe injury of the lower spine in which both facet joints of one vertebral segment slip out of their normal alignment, causing the vertebra above to move forward onto the one below. This condition typically arises from high-energy trauma and can threaten spinal stability, injure neural elements, and impair mobility. Understanding this injury requires a clear definition, knowledge of its various forms, and insight into the many ways it can occur, present clinically, and be accurately diagnosed.

Lumbar bilateral perched facet dislocation refers to the displacement of both superior articular facets of one lumbar vertebra slipping over the inferior articular facets of the vertebra below, without fully locking, resulting in a perched (partially dislocated) position. Unlike a locked facet dislocation, in which the facets are completely disengaged, a perched facet remains partially in contact, but may still compress nearby nerves and destabilize the spine.

Types of Lumbar Bilateral Perched Facet Dislocation

Type 1: Anterior Perched Facet Dislocation. Here, the upper vertebra shifts forward relative to the one below, causing the facets to rest in a perched position rather than their normal groove. This is the most common form and typically results from forward-bending injuries.

Type 2: Posterior Perched Facet Dislocation. In this rare pattern, the upper vertebra moves backward, pushing its facets onto the back of the inferior facets. These injuries often result from forceful extension or direct rear impact to the back.

Type 3: Rotational Perched Facet Dislocation. A twisting force causes one side of the vertebra to perch while the opposite side may partially lock or remain in place. This rotational injury can pinch nerve roots asymmetrically and lead to uneven symptoms.

Type 4: Combined Translation-Rotation Dislocation. Some injuries include both forward or backward translation and rotation, producing a complex perched orientation. These mixed-pattern dislocations often accompany more severe soft tissue damage and higher risk of nerve injury.

Causes of Lumbar Bilateral Perched Facet Dislocation

1. Motor Vehicle Collisions. High-speed crashes can force the spine into sudden flexion or rotation, exceeding the tolerance of facet joints and leading to perched dislocations.
2. Falls from Height. Landing on the feet or buttocks from a significant height transmits compressive forces to the lumbar spine, potentially shearing the facets into a perched position.
3. Sports Injuries. Contact sports like football or rugby can involve tackles or falls that hyperflex or hyperrotate the torso, stressing facet joints beyond their limits.
4. Crush Injuries. Heavy objects crushing the lower back can produce a distraction force, prying the facets apart and allowing them to perch.
5. Severe Hyperflexion. Sudden bending forward, such as diving into shallow water, can disengage facets slightly and leave them perched.
6. Hyperextension Trauma. Bending far backward, like in a fall onto the lower back, may drive the facets into a perched posture in reverse.
7. Axial Loading. Vertical force down the spine, as when landing feet-first, can jam the facets together or shear them sideways into a perched position.
8. Direct Blow to the Back. A focused impact to the lumbar region can displace facet joints without fracturing the vertebra, resulting in perched dislocation.
9. Degenerative Facet Hypertrophy. Enlarged, arthritic facets can alter joint mechanics and predispose to subluxation under minor trauma.
10. Osteoporosis. Weak, porous bones and compromised joint support can allow minor forces to dislocate facets.
11. Rheumatoid Arthritis. Inflammatory damage to ligaments and joint capsules around the facets increases laxity and risk of perched dislocation.
12. Spondylolysis. A defect or fracture in the pars interarticularis can destabilize the vertebra and ease facet slippage.
13. Previous Spinal Surgery. Surgical disruption of ligaments or removal of stabilizing structures can leave the spine vulnerable to dislocation.
14. Congenital Facet Anomalies. Unusual facet shapes or orientations at birth can compromise joint stability over time.
15. Spinal Tumors. Lesions that erode bone or invade ligaments around the facets may weaken support and lead to dislocation.
16. Spinal Infections. Osteomyelitis or discitis can destroy joint and ligament tissue, causing instability and perched facets.
17. Chronic Steroid Use. Long-term steroids reduce bone density and weaken soft tissues around the spine.
18. Connective Tissue Disorders. Conditions like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome increase joint laxity, predisposing individuals to subluxations and dislocations.
19. Metastatic Cancer. Secondary tumors in vertebral bodies can erode bone and joint surfaces, destabilizing facet joints.
20. Violent Seizures. Severe convulsions can apply unpredictable forces to the spine, occasionally resulting in perched facet dislocations.

Symptoms of Lumbar Bilateral Perched Facet Dislocation

1. Severe Low Back Pain. A sudden, intense pain in the lumbar region is often the first sign of facet dislocation.
2. Local Tenderness. Touching or pressing on the affected vertebral level elicits sharp discomfort.
3. Muscle Spasm. Paraspinal muscles tighten reflexively to protect the injured segment, causing stiffness.
4. Limited Range of Motion. Bending, twisting, or extending the lower back becomes notably restricted and painful.
5. Radicular Pain. Pain radiating down one or both legs indicates nerve root irritation from the displaced facets.
6. Numbness. Patients may feel reduced sensation or a “pins and needles” sensation in the legs or feet.
7. Weakness. Compression of nerve roots can lead to muscle weakness in hip flexors, knee extensors, or ankle dorsiflexors.
8. Reflex Changes. Altered knee or ankle reflexes point to specific nerve root involvement.
9. Gait Disturbance. Difficulty walking or dragging of the foot may occur if motor nerves are compromised.
10. Cauda Equina Syndrome. Severe cases may disrupt bowel or bladder control, signaling urgent spinal cord involvement.
11. Postural Deformity. A visible step-off or misalignment may be palpable or noticeable on inspection.
12. Pain on Extension. Leaning backward often worsens symptoms as the facets contact more forcefully.
13. Pain on Rotation. Turning the torso can grind displaced facets and intensify pain.
14. Referred Buttock Pain. Discomfort may spread to the buttocks or posterior thigh.
15. Sciatica. Sharp, shooting pain following the sciatic nerve path indicates nerve root compression.
16. Allodynia. Non-painful stimuli like light touch may feel painful near the injury.
17. Hyperalgesia. Exaggerated response to painful stimuli reflects nerve sensitization.
18. Swelling. Soft tissue edema may develop around the injury site.
19. Bruising. Hemorrhage under the skin can produce visible ecchymosis over the lumbar region.
20. Shock Signs. In traumatic settings, low blood pressure and rapid pulse may accompany severe pain and blood loss.

Diagnostic Tests for Lumbar Bilateral Perched Facet Dislocation

Physical Examination Tests

1. Inspection. Observe posture, alignment, and any visible deformity in the lumbar region, noting asymmetry or step-offs.
2. Palpation. Gently press along the spinous processes and facets to locate tenderness and muscle spasm.
3. Range of Motion Assessment. Ask the patient to bend forward, backward, and side to side to evaluate pain-limited movement.
4. Straight Leg Raise (SLR) Test. With the patient supine, lift the straightened leg to detect radicular pain suggesting nerve root irritation.
5. Adam’s Forward Bend Test. In standing, bending forward may accentuate facet displacement and reveal contour changes.
6. Neurological Examination. Check motor strength, sensation, and reflexes in the lower extremities to identify nerve involvement.
7. Gait Analysis. Observe the patient walking to detect limp, foot drop, or balance issues.
8. Palpation for Step-off. Run fingers along adjacent spinous processes to feel for a sudden forward shift.

Manual Orthopedic Tests

9. Kemp’s Test. While standing, the examiner extends, rotates, and side-bends the patient’s spine toward the painful side; a positive test reproduces pain at the facets.
10. Facet Joint Compression Test. Applying gentle pressure on the posterior pelvis can provoke facet pain.
11. Extension-Rotation Test. In prone position, lifting and rotating one hip stresses the facet on that side, causing discomfort if injured.
12. Prone Instability Test. The patient lies prone with legs off the table; lifting the legs engages stabilizing muscles—if pain decreases, passive stability is compromised.
13. Vertebral Spring Test. Gentle anterior pressure on spinous processes tests segmental mobility; excessive movement indicates instability.
14. Gillet’s Test. Assessing posterior superior iliac spine and sacrum movement during one-leg stance reveals sacroiliac and lower lumbar involvement.
15. Lateral Shift Test. Observing trunk lateral deviation during forward bending helps identify asymmetric facet injury.
16. Quadrant Test. Combining extension, rotation, and lateral bending, this test compresses the facet joint and reproduces pain.

Laboratory and Pathological Tests

17. Complete Blood Count (CBC). Evaluates infection or bleeding, which may accompany open injuries or systemic trauma.
18. Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR). Elevated in inflammation or infection that can weaken joint structures.
19. C-Reactive Protein (CRP). A more sensitive marker of acute inflammation than ESR.
20. Coagulation Profile. Ensures safe imaging and surgery by detecting bleeding disorders.
21. Blood Type and Cross-match. Prepares for possible transfusion in severe trauma cases.
22. Metabolic Panel. Checks kidney and liver function before using contrast agents.
23. Creatine Kinase (CK). High levels may indicate muscle injury around the spine.
24. Blood Gas Analysis. Monitors oxygenation and acid-base status in critical trauma patients.

Electrodiagnostic Tests

25. Nerve Conduction Study (NCS). Measures the speed and strength of signals traveling through peripheral nerves.
26. Electromyography (EMG). Records electrical activity of muscles to detect denervation from nerve root compression.
27. Somatosensory Evoked Potentials (SSEP). Evaluates conduction through sensory pathways in the spinal cord.
28. Motor Evoked Potentials (MEP). Tests motor pathway integrity by stimulating the brain and recording muscle responses.
29. F-wave Latency Test. Assesses proximal nerve segment function by measuring late responses in motor nerves.
30. H-reflex. Evaluates the monosynaptic reflex arc in the S1 nerve root.
31. Reflex Latency Testing. Quantifies delay in reflex responses, indicating nerve damage.
32. Paraspinal Mapping. Multi-site EMG of paraspinal muscles to localize nerve root lesions.

Imaging Tests

33. Plain Radiographs (X-rays). AP and lateral views reveal perched facets as step-offs between vertebrae.
34. Oblique X-rays. Highlight facet joint alignment and show displaced articular processes.
35. Flexion-Extension Radiographs. Dynamic images assess stability by comparing alignment in different positions.
36. Computed Tomography (CT) Scan. Offers detailed bone images to define facet orientation and any fractures.
37. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Visualizes soft tissues, ligaments, discs, and neural elements for associated injuries.
38. CT Myelography. Combines CT imaging with contrast in the spinal canal to outline nerve root compression.
39. Bone Scintigraphy. Detects increased uptake at sites of acute injury or occult fracture.
40. Ultrasound. Point-of-care evaluation can identify soft tissue swelling and guide injections or aspirations.

Non-Pharmacological Treatments

Physiotherapy & Electrotherapy Therapies

1. Spinal Immobilization

   • Description: Use of rigid or semi-rigid lumbar braces to limit motion.

   • Purpose: Protects injured ligaments and facets during healing.

   • Mechanism: Holds vertebrae in neutral alignment, reducing shear forces.

2. Bed Rest with Log Rolling

   • Description: Strict horizontal rest, moving by log-rolling technique.

   • Purpose: Minimizes unintended twisting or bending.

   • Mechanism: Reduces stress on the healing facets and ligaments.

3. Static Lumbar Traction

   • Description: Sustained axial pulling on the lumbar spine (5–10 kg).

   • Purpose: Slightly distracts joint surfaces to relieve pain and spasm.

   • Mechanism: Increases intervertebral space, reducing facet compression.

4. Intermittent Lumbar Traction

   • Description: Cycles of traction and relaxation.

   • Purpose: Enhances circulation and prevents muscle fatigue.

   • Mechanism: Rhythmic distraction–relaxation promotes tissue healing.

5. Therapeutic Ultrasound

   • Description: 1 MHz ultrasound waves over the injury site.

   • Purpose: Accelerates soft-tissue healing, reduces pain.

   • Mechanism: Micro-vibrations increase blood flow and collagen remodeling.

6. Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS)

   • Description: Surface electrodes deliver pulsed currents.

   • Purpose: Prevents muscle atrophy, retrains lumbar stabilizers.

   • Mechanism: Induces rhythmic muscle contractions to maintain tone.

7. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)

   • Description: Low-frequency surface stimulation around the spine.

   • Purpose: Temporary pain relief.

   • Mechanism: Activates inhibitory gate-control pathways in the dorsal horn.

8. Heat Therapy (Moist Hot Packs)

   • Description: Warm, damp packs applied for 15–20 minutes.

   • Purpose: Soothes muscle spasm, improves flexibility.

   • Mechanism: Vasodilation increases nutrient delivery to injured tissues.

9. Cold Therapy (Ice Packs)

   • Description: 10–15 minutes of ice application post-exercise.

   • Purpose: Reduces inflammation and pain.

   • Mechanism: Vasoconstriction limits edema and nociceptor activation.

10. Manual Joint Mobilization

    • Description: Gentle oscillatory movements by a trained therapist.

    • Purpose: Restores facet joint glide, reduces stiffness.

    • Mechanism: Mobilizes synovial fluid, promotes cartilage nutrition.

11. Soft-Tissue Massage

    • Description: Deep muscle and connective-tissue work around the lumbar region.

    • Purpose: Relieves trigger points, improves circulation.

    • Mechanism: Breaks up adhesions and reduces pain-spasm cycle.

12. Myofascial Release

    • Description: Sustained pressure on fascial restrictions.

    • Purpose: Enhances tissue pliability.

    • Mechanism: Stimulates mechanoreceptors that down-regulate muscle tone.

13. Kinesio Taping

    • Description: Elastic tape applied to paraspinal muscles.

    • Purpose: Provides proprioceptive feedback, supports posture.

    • Mechanism: Lifts skin to improve lymphatic drainage and reduce pain.

14. Biofeedback-Guided Muscle Training

    • Description: Real-time EMG feedback to teach muscle control.

    • Purpose: Optimizes activation of lumbar stabilizers.

    • Mechanism: Reinforces correct recruitment patterns, reduces compensations.

15. Aquatic Therapy

    • Description: Gentle movements in a warm pool.

    • Purpose: Early mobility with reduced weight-bearing.

    • Mechanism: Buoyancy decreases axial load, allowing safe range-of-motion work.

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Exercise Therapies

16. Core Stabilization Exercises

    • Description: Isometric holds (e.g., abdominal bracing, bird-dog).

    • Purpose: Rebuilds deep trunk support.

    • Mechanism: Activates transversus abdominis and multifidus muscles.

17. Lumbar Flexion–Extension Range-of-Motion

    • Description: Controlled forward/back bends within pain-free limits.

    • Purpose: Restores normal spinal mechanics.

    • Mechanism: Improves facet glide and facet joint nutrition.

18. Pelvic Tilt and Bridging

    • Description: Lying heel-drives to raise pelvis off surface.

    • Purpose: Strengthens glutes and lower back extensors.

    • Mechanism: Encourages co-contraction of lumbopelvic musculature.

19. Hamstring and Hip Flexor Stretches

    • Description: Gentle holds of 30–60 seconds.

    • Purpose: Reduces compensatory pelvic tilt.

    • Mechanism: Restores balanced length-tension relationships.

20. Active Trunk Rotations

    • Description: Supine knees-to-side movements.

    • Purpose: Improves rotational mobility without overloading facets.

    • Mechanism: Mobilizes thoracolumbar fascia and intervertebral discs.

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Mind-Body Therapies

21. Guided Progressive Muscle Relaxation

    • Description: Sequential tensing/releasing muscle groups.

    • Purpose: Lowers overall muscle tension and anxiety.

    • Mechanism: Alters autonomic balance toward parasympathetic dominance.

22. Mindfulness Meditation

    • Description: Focused breathing and body-scan awareness.

    • Purpose: Reduces perception of pain intensity.

    • Mechanism: Modulates pain pathways via cortical inhibition.

23. Yoga-Based Gentle Stretching

    • Description: Poses like “Child’s Pose” and “Cat–Cow.”

    • Purpose: Enhances flexibility and mind–body connection.

    • Mechanism: Combines movement with breath to calm nociceptive processing.

24. Guided Imagery for Pain Management

    • Description: Therapist-led visualization of soothing scenes.

    • Purpose: Distraction and reduction of central sensitization.

    • Mechanism: Engages descending inhibitory systems in the brainstem.

25. Cognitive Behavioral Strategies

    • Description: Techniques to reframe negative pain thoughts.

    • Purpose: Improves coping and reduces kinesiophobia.

    • Mechanism: Alters prefrontal cortex activity to down-modulate pain.

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Educational Self-Management

26. Posture and Body-Mechanics Training

    • Description: Teaching neutral spine during daily tasks.

    • Purpose: Prevents re-injury.

    • Mechanism: Minimizes harmful loads on healing facets.

27. Activity Pacing

    • Description: Balancing rest and gentle activity.

    • Purpose: Prevents flare-ups.

    • Mechanism: Avoids repetitive strain and central sensitization.

28. Home Exercise Program

    • Description: Customized daily routines.

    • Purpose: Maintains gains between therapy sessions.

    • Mechanism: Reinforces motor learning and strength.

29. Ergonomic Modification Coaching

    • Description: Adjusting workstations and seating.

    • Purpose: Reduces sustained lumbar loading.

    • Mechanism: Distributes forces evenly across the spine.

30. Pain Education Workshops

    • Description: Explaining pain physiology and safety.

    • Purpose: Empowers patients, lowers fear avoidance.

    • Mechanism: Corrects misconceptions, reducing catastrophizing.

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Pharmacological Treatments

Below are the most commonly used medications—always under physician supervision. Dosages are for an average adult without major organ dysfunction; individual needs vary.

1. Ibuprofen (NSAID)

   • Dose: 400 mg every 6 hours

   • Timing: With meals

   • Class: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory

   • Side Effects: GI upset, renal strain

2. Naproxen (NSAID)

   • Dose: 500 mg twice daily

   • Timing: Morning and evening with food

   • Side Effects: Heartburn, fluid retention

3. Diclofenac (NSAID)

   • Dose: 50 mg three times daily

   • Side Effects: Elevated liver enzymes

4. Cyclobenzaprine (Muscle Relaxant)

   • Dose: 5–10 mg at bedtime

   • Class: Centrally acting

   • Side Effects: Drowsiness, dry mouth

5. Baclofen (Muscle Relaxant)

   • Dose: 5 mg three times daily

   • Side Effects: Weakness, fatigue

6. Acetaminophen (Analgesic)

   • Dose: 500–1,000 mg every 6 hours (max 3 g/day)

   • Class: Non-opioid analgesic

   • Side Effects: Liver toxicity in overdose

7. Prednisone (Oral Steroid)

   • Dose: 20 mg daily for 5 days, taper

   • Class: Corticosteroid

   • Side Effects: Hyperglycemia, mood changes

8. Methylprednisolone (IV Steroid)

   • Dose: 30 mg/kg bolus then 5.4 mg/kg/h for 23 h

   • Use: Acute spinal cord compression

   • Side Effects: Infection risk, GI bleeding

9. Tramadol (Weak Opioid)

   • Dose: 50 mg every 6 hours

   • Side Effects: Dizziness, nausea

10. Morphine Sulfate (Opioid)

    • Dose: 2–4 mg IV every 4 hours PRN

    • Side Effects: Respiratory depression, constipation

11. Gabapentin (Neuropathic Pain)

    • Dose: 300 mg at bedtime, titrate to 1,200 mg/day

    • Side Effects: Sedation, dizziness

12. Pregabalin (Neuropathic Pain)

    • Dose: 75 mg twice daily

    • Side Effects: Weight gain, peripheral edema

13. Amitriptyline (Tricyclic)

    • Dose: 10–25 mg at bedtime

    • Use: Chronic pain modulation

    • Side Effects: Anticholinergic effects

14. Duloxetine (SNRI)

    • Dose: 30 mg daily

    • Use: Chronic musculoskeletal pain

    • Side Effects: Nausea, sleep disturbances

15. Topical Diclofenac Gel

    • Dose: Apply 2–4 g to area four times daily

    • Side Effects: Local irritation

16. Capsaicin Cream

    • Dose: Apply QID

    • Use: Counter-irritation for facet pain

    • Side Effects: Burning sensation

17. Lidocaine Patch 5%

    • Dose: Apply up to 12 hours on, 12 off

    • Use: Localized pain relief

    • Side Effects: Skin redness

18. Calcitonin (Nasal Spray)

    • Dose: 200 IU daily

    • Use: Acute fracture pain adjunct

    • Side Effects: Rhinitis

19. Vitamin D3

    • Dose: 1,000–2,000 IU daily

    • Use: Supports bone healing

    • Side Effects: Rare hypercalcemia

20. Calcium Carbonate

    • Dose: 500 mg twice daily

    • Use: Bone mineral support

    • Side Effects: Constipation

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Dietary Molecular Supplements

1. Glucosamine Sulfate (1,500 mg/day)

   • Function: Joint cartilage support

   • Mechanism: Stimulates proteoglycan synthesis

2. Chondroitin Sulfate (1,200 mg/day)

   • Function: Improves joint lubrication

   • Mechanism: Enhances synovial fluid viscosity

3. Collagen Peptides (10 g/day)

   • Function: Builds connective tissue

   • Mechanism: Provides amino acids for matrix repair

4. Curcumin (500 mg twice daily)

   • Function: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory

   • Mechanism: Inhibits NF-κB pathway

5. Boswellia Serrata Extract (300 mg three times daily)

   • Function: Reduces joint inflammation

   • Mechanism: Inhibits 5-lipoxygenase

6. Omega-3 Fish Oil (1,000 mg EPA/DHA daily)

   • Function: Eases inflammatory cascade

   • Mechanism: Competes with arachidonic acid

7. Vitamin C (500 mg twice daily)

   • Function: Collagen synthesis cofactor

   • Mechanism: Hydroxylation of proline/lysine

8. Vitamin K2 (100 µg daily)

   • Function: Directs calcium into bone

   • Mechanism: Activates osteocalcin

9. Magnesium (250 mg daily)

   • Function: Muscle relaxation, bone health

   • Mechanism: Co-factor in protein synthesis

10. MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) (1,000 mg twice daily)

    • Function: Reduces oxidative stress

    • Mechanism: Sulfur donor for connective tissues

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Advanced Biologic & Regenerative “Drugs”

These are emerging or adjunctive therapies, often used off-label or in research settings.

1. Alendronate (Bisphosphonate)

   • Dose: 70 mg weekly

   • Function: Inhibits osteoclasts to preserve bone

   • Mechanism: Binds hydroxyapatite, preventing resorption

2. Zoledronic Acid (Bisphosphonate)

   • Dose: 5 mg IV once yearly

   • Function: Long-term bone density support

   • Mechanism: Induces osteoclast apoptosis

3. Teriparatide (PTH Analog)

   • Dose: 20 µg subcut daily

   • Function: Stimulates bone formation

   • Mechanism: Activates osteoblasts

4. BMP-2 (Recombinant Bone Morphogenetic Protein-2)

   • Dose: 1.5 mg/mL implanted with carrier

   • Function: Promotes fusion in surgery

   • Mechanism: Induces mesenchymal differentiation to osteoblasts

5. Platelet-Rich Plasma (Regenerative)

   • Dose: 3–5 mL injection post-surgery

   • Function: Accelerates soft-tissue healing

   • Mechanism: Concentrated growth factors (PDGF, TGF-β)

6. Hyaluronic Acid (Viscosupplementation)

   • Dose: 2 mL intra-facet injection monthly × 3

   • Function: Lubricates and cushions facet joints

   • Mechanism: Restores synovial fluid viscosity

7. Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSC Therapy)

   • Dose: 1×10⁶ cells per mL injected into facet capsule

   • Function: Tissue regeneration

   • Mechanism: Paracrine secretion of growth factors

8. Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (ACI)

   • Dose: Cell-scaffold implanted during fusion

   • Function: Cartilage repair

   • Mechanism: Chondrocytes rebuild joint surfaces

9. BMP-7 (Osteogenic Protein-1)

   • Dose: Experimental implant during surgery

   • Function: Fusion augmentation

   • Mechanism: Promotes osteogenesis

10. Stem-Cell Seeded Scaffolds

    • Dose: Custom scaffold placed in decorticated bed

    • Function: Combined structural support and cell delivery

    • Mechanism: Scaffold guides new tissue formation

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Surgical Procedures

Surgery is almost always required for true bilateral perched facet dislocations.

1. Closed Reduction under Anesthesia

   • Procedure: Gentle traction and manipulation in OR.

   • Benefits: Avoids open exposure if successful early.

2. Posterior Open Reduction & Instrumentation

   • Procedure: Midline incision, facetectomy if needed, pedicle-screw fixation.

   • Benefits: Direct visualization, robust stabilization.

3. Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF)

   • Procedure: Front-of-spine approach, disc removal, cage + plate.

   • Benefits: Restores disc height, sagittal alignment.

4. Posterior-Only Fusion

   • Procedure: Facet decortication, bone graft, pedicle-screw/rod constructs.

   • Benefits: Single-stage, strong posterior column support.

5. Combined Anterior–Posterior Fusion (360° Fusion)

   • Procedure: Staged front and back approaches.

   • Benefits: Maximizes stability in severe injuries.

6. Minimally Invasive Percutaneous Fixation

   • Procedure: Image-guided pedicle screw insertion through small incisions.

   • Benefits: Less muscle damage, faster recovery.

7. Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF)

   • Procedure: Posterior approach, unilateral facetectomy, interbody spacer.

   • Benefits: Maintains contralateral facets, lower risk of vascular injury.

8. Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion (LLIF)

   • Procedure: Lateral retroperitoneal access, large cage insertion.

   • Benefits: Indirect decompression, minimal posterior disruption.

9. Smith–Petersen Osteotomy

   • Procedure: Posterior resection of facet joints for realignment.

   • Benefits: Corrects fixed deformity accompanying dislocation.

10. Vertebral Column Resection (VCR)

    • Procedure: Removal of entire vertebral segment for severe malalignment.

    • Benefits: Allows maximal realignment in chronic or complex cases.

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Prevention Strategies

1. Proper Lifting Techniques (“lift with legs, not back”)

2. Core-Strengthening Programs (prehab for at-risk athletes)

3. Ergonomic Workstation Setup (sit–stand desks)

4. Sport-Specific Protective Gear (lumbar braces in contact sports)

5. Flexibility Training (hip-flexor and hamstring stretching)

6. Regular Weight-Bearing Exercise (maintains bone density)

7. Adequate Vitamin D & Calcium Intake

8. Fall-Prevention Measures at Home (grab bars, non-skid mats)

9. Weight Management (reduces spinal overload)

10. Avoiding Extreme Spine Loading (no heavy twisting or axial loading)

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When to See a Doctor

• Severe or Unrelenting Back Pain: Especially after trauma.

• Radiating Leg Weakness or Numbness: Signs of nerve root compression.

• Loss of Bowel or Bladder Control: Medical emergency.

• Inability to Stand or Walk: Indicates instability or neurologic injury.

• Visible Deformity or Step-Off in the Spine.

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What to Do and What to Avoid

Do:

1. Keep spine in neutral—use a brace as directed.

2. Follow your physical-therapy home program daily.

3. Use heat/ice to manage discomfort.

4. Communicate any new numbness or weakness immediately.

5. Take medications exactly as prescribed.

Avoid:
6. Bending and twisting the trunk abruptly.
7. Lifting objects heavier than 5 kg in first 3 months.
8. Prolonged sitting without breaks.
9. High-impact sports until cleared by your surgeon.
10. Skipping follow-up or ignoring warning symptoms.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can bilateral perched facets heal without surgery?
   No—because the posterior ligamentous complex is disrupted, bracing alone cannot restore stability; surgery is almost always required.

2. How long until I can walk normally?
   Most people begin assisted walking within 2–3 days post-op and unassisted walking by 1–2 weeks, pending pain and surgeon clearance.

3. Will I need a fusion?
   Yes—instrumented fusion across the injured level prevents future displacement and pain.

4. How long does the surgical hardware stay in?
   Typically permanently, unless it causes pain or rare complications.

5. What are the biggest surgical risks?
   Infection, bleeding, nerve injury, non-union (pseudoarthrosis), and hardware failure.

6. When can I return to work?
   Sedentary jobs: 4–6 weeks. Manual labor: 3–6 months, depending on strength recovery.

7. Is permanent back pain inevitable?
   With proper surgery and rehab, many regain near-normal function—but mild stiffness or discomfort can persist.

8. Do I need lifelong NSAIDs?
   No—short courses for postoperative pain, then taper as you progress in rehab.

9. Can physical therapy harm my fusion?
   When guided by a trained therapist following surgeon protocols, therapy is safe and essential.

10. Are there alternatives to spinal fusion?
    For this injury type, fusion is standard. Motion-preserving implants aren’t indicated for unstable facet dislocations.

11. Will I need a brace after surgery?
    Often for 6–12 weeks to support soft tissues as they heal.

12. How do I know if my spinal cord was harmed?
    Watch for persistent weakness, sensory changes, or bowel/bladder issues—report these immediately.

13. Can I drive after surgery?
    Typically after 4 weeks, once you can safely pivot without pain or brace restriction, and off narcotics.

14. What diet supports bone healing?
    Adequate protein, calcium, vitamin D, and avoiding smoking or excessive alcohol.

15. Will spinal curvature change after fusion?
    Fusion aims to restore normal alignment, but slight changes in mobility and curve shape can occur.

Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, treatment plan, life style, food habit, hormonal condition, immune system, chronic disease condition, geological location, weather and previous medical  history is also unique. So always seek the best advice from a qualified medical professional or health care provider before trying any treatments to ensure to find out the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. Regular check-ups and awareness can help to manage and prevent complications associated with these diseases conditions. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this website or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. We always try to ensure that the content is regularly updated to reflect the latest medical research and treatment options. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.

The article is written by Team RxHarun and reviewed by the Rx Editorial Board Members

Last Updated: June 19, 2025.

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