What is "spondylolisthesis"

medical Latin, from Greek spondylos (see spondylo-) + oliothesis "dislocation, slipping."

n. (context medicine English) A forward displacement of a vertebra over a lower vertebra, due to a congenital defect or injury

n. a forward dislocation of one vertebra over the one beneath it producing pressure on spinal nerves

Spondylolisthesis is the forward displacement of a vertebral bone in relation to the natural curve of the spine, most commonly occurring after a fracture, and most often the fifth lumbar vertebra. Backward displacement is referred to as retrolisthesis. When occurring in conjunction with scoliosis, the shortened term "olisthesis," may sometimes be used instead.

A hangman's fracture is a specific type of spondylolisthesis where the second cervical vertebra (C2) is displaced anteriorly relative to the C3 vertebra due to fractures of the C2 vertebra's pedicles. This is the cause of death in hanging.