What type of joint changes characterize spondylolisthesis?

Spondylolisthesis is a condition characterized by the displacement of a vertebra, commonly resulting in misalignment or slippage over the vertebra below it. This misalignment can lead to various changes in the joints of the spine, particularly at the facet joints, which are responsible for facilitating movement between vertebrae.

Articular degeneration is indeed a hallmark of spondylolisthesis. As the vertebra becomes unstable and shifts position, it places abnormal stress on the surrounding joints. Over time, this leads to wear and tear of the articular cartilage and the development of degenerative changes, such as cartilage loss, subchondral sclerosis, and ultimately osteoarthritis in the affected facet joints. This degeneration can exacerbate pain and contribute to further instability of the spine.

In contrast, the other options, while they might relate to different forms of joint pathology, do not specifically characterize the degenerative changes seen in spondylolisthesis. Osteophytes can develop in various arthritic conditions but are not a primary characteristic of spondylolisthesis. Joint effusion refers to the presence of excess fluid in the joint space, which can occur in inflammatory processes but isn’t specifically associated with spondylolisthesis