The prevalence of lumbar spondylolysis in young children: a retrospective analysis using CT.

Purpose: Although lumbar spondylolysis is encountered in general population with an incidence estimated to be 3-10%, limited information is available for children. The aim of the study is to determine the prevalence of spondylolysis according to associated vertebral bony malformation and spinopelvic parameters in children under eight requiring CT evaluation for unrelated lumbar conditions.

Methods: Seven hundred and seventeen abdominal and pelvic multi-detector CT scans were obtained in patients under 8 years of age were reviewed.