[Compression of the cauda equina by osteoarthritic pseudo-spondylolisthesis, with overlying signs of deficit. The possible role of a venous mechanism].

The authors report the case of a patient suffering from paraparesis where a venous pathology seemed to be responsible, and the literature is reviewed. A cauda-equina compression by L4/L5 arthrosic pseudo-spondylolisthesis caused troubles of the spinal cord venous drainage, seen at the myelography. There was a neurological deficit above the L4/L5 compression with a psoas and quadriceps deficit. After a L4/L5 laminectomy the neurological signs improved rapidly.