Your Personal Spine Video Guide · Dr. Qusai Hammouri

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Getting to Know Your Lower Back

Before we talk about what's wrong, it helps to see what a healthy lower back looks like — the bones, discs, and nerves we'll be talking about.

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Your Condition: Spondylolisthesis & Pars Defect

A pars defect is a small crack in part of the vertebra. When that crack lets one bone slip forward over the one below it, it's called spondylolisthesis. These videos explain how this happens and why it causes pain.

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Your Surgery, Part 1: ALIF (Fusion from the Front)

Through a small opening at the front, we remove the worn disc and place a spacer that helps the two bones grow together — holding the slipped bone in its proper place.

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Your Surgery, Part 2: Fusion from the Back (Pedicle Screws)

In the same operation, small screws and rods are placed from the back of the spine to hold everything steady while the bones heal together — like an internal brace.

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The Robot: Technology That Guides Your Surgeon

Your surgery will use robotic guidance. The robot doesn't operate on its own — it acts like a very precise GPS, helping your surgeon place each screw exactly where it needs to go.

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Getting Ready: Your Surgery Checklist