Abstract
1. A detailed analysis of the anatomy of spondylolisthesis reveals many causes of serious interference with the nerve roots.
2. These anatomical findings can be correlated with the symptoms.
3. In association with spondylolisthesis, cases of disc prolapse, tuberculosis, and a cauda equina lesion are described.
4. Adequate decompression of the affected nerve root is essential in all cases with sciatica. The operative procedure is described.
5. The problem of arthrodesis will be discussed fully in a separate paper.