According to the Meyerding classification, a Grade II spondylolisthesis at L5-S1 implies that the L5 vertebral body has slipped anteriorly over the sacrum by:

• A 0–25% of the AP diameter of the superior surface of S1
• B 51–75% of the AP diameter of the superior surface of S1
• C 26–50% of the AP diameter of the superior surface of S1 ✓
• D 76–100% of the AP diameter of the superior surface of S1

Explanation

Meyerding classification divides the superior end plate of the lower vertebra into four equal quartiles: Grade I = 0–25% slip; Grade II = 26–50% slip; Grade III = 51–75% slip; Grade IV = 76–100% slip. When the upper vertebra completely falls off the lower vertebra (>100% anteriorly), it is termed spondyloptosis (Grade V). This classification is important in surgical decision-making: Grades I-II may respond to conservative management or fusion, while Grades III–IV generally require surgical reduction and stabilisation.

Reference: Maheshwari Essential Orthopaedics, 6th ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.