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<title>Bertolotti Syndrome - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf</title>
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<meta name="robots" content="INDEX,FOLLOW,NOARCHIVE" /><meta name="citation_inbook_title" content="StatPearls [Internet]" /><meta name="citation_title" content="Bertolotti Syndrome" /><meta name="citation_publisher" content="StatPearls Publishing" /><meta name="citation_date" content="2023/07/25" /><meta name="citation_author" content="Amanda E. Miller" /><meta name="citation_author" content="Andrew Zhang" /><meta name="citation_pmid" content="36251807" /><meta name="citation_fulltext_html_url" content="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK585032/" /><link rel="schema.DC" href="http://purl.org/DC/elements/1.0/" /><meta name="DC.Title" content="Bertolotti Syndrome" /><meta name="DC.Type" content="Text" /><meta name="DC.Publisher" content="StatPearls Publishing" /><meta name="DC.Contributor" content="Amanda E. Miller" /><meta name="DC.Contributor" content="Andrew Zhang" /><meta name="DC.Date" content="2023/07/25" /><meta name="DC.Identifier" content="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK585032/" /><meta name="description" content="Back pain associated with an anatomical variant of the lumbosacral junction was first described by Bertolotti in 1917.[1] Thus, low back pain in the presence of any lumbosacral transitional vertebra (LSTV) variant is termed “Bertolotti syndrome.” An LSTV is an aberrant articulation between the L5 vertebra and the sacrum. The most common type of LSTV is the enlargement of unilateral or bilateral L5 transverse processes with the fusion of one or more of those transverse processes to the sacrum.[2]" /><meta name="og:title" content="Bertolotti Syndrome" /><meta name="og:type" content="book" /><meta name="og:description" content="Back pain associated with an anatomical variant of the lumbosacral junction was first described by Bertolotti in 1917.[1] Thus, low back pain in the presence of any lumbosacral transitional vertebra (LSTV) variant is termed “Bertolotti syndrome.” An LSTV is an aberrant articulation between the L5 vertebra and the sacrum. The most common type of LSTV is the enlargement of unilateral or bilateral L5 transverse processes with the fusion of one or more of those transverse processes to the sacrum.[2]" /><meta name="og:url" content="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK585032/" /><meta name="og:site_name" content="NCBI Bookshelf" /><meta name="og:image" content="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/corehtml/pmc/pmcgifs/bookshelf/thumbs/th-statpearls-lrg.png" /><meta name="twitter:card" content="summary" /><meta name="twitter:site" content="@ncbibooks" /><meta name="bk-non-canon-loc" content="/books/n/statpearls/article-143324/" /><link rel="canonical" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK585032/" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/corehtml/pmc/css/figpopup.css" type="text/css" media="screen" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/corehtml/pmc/css/bookshelf/2.26/css/books.min.css" type="text/css" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/corehtml/pmc/css/bookshelf/2.26/css/books_print.min.css" type="text/css" /><style type="text/css">p a.figpopup{display:inline !important} .bk_tt {font-family: monospace} .first-line-outdent .bk_ref {display: inline} </style><script type="text/javascript" src="/corehtml/pmc/js/jquery.hoverIntent.min.js"> </script><script type="text/javascript" src="/corehtml/pmc/js/common.min.js?_=3.18"> </script><script type="text/javascript">window.name="mainwindow";</script><script type="text/javascript" src="/corehtml/pmc/js/bookshelf/2.26/book-toc.min.js"> </script><script type="text/javascript" src="/corehtml/pmc/js/bookshelf/2.26/books.min.js"> </script>
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<div class="pre-content"><div><div class="bk_prnt"><p class="small">NCBI Bookshelf. A service of the National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.</p><p>StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. </p></div></div></div>
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<div class="main-content lit-style" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://schema.org/CreativeWork"><div class="meta-content fm-sec"><h1 id="_NBK585032_"><span class="title" itemprop="name">Bertolotti Syndrome</span></h1><p class="contrib-group"><h4>Authors</h4><span itemprop="author">Amanda E. Miller</span>; <span itemprop="author">Andrew Zhang</span><sup>1</sup>.</p><h4>Affiliations</h4><div class="affiliation"><sup>1</sup> Brown University</div><p class="small">Last Update: <span itemprop="dateModified">July 25, 2023</span>.</p></div><div class="body-content whole_rhythm" itemprop="text"><div id="article-143324.s1"><h2 id="_article-143324_s1_">Continuing Education Activity</h2><p>Bertolotti syndrome is a congenital disorder leading to back pain associated due to a lumbosacral transitional vertebra (LSTV). It most frequently occurs via an articulation of the L5 vertebra transverse process(es) with the sacrum, leading to irregular spinal mobility and pain. This disorder affects up to 8% of the population and must be accurately diagnosed to be managed appropriately. This activity describes the evaluation and treatment of Bertolotti syndrome and reviews the role of the interprofessional team in managing patients with this condition.</p><p>
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<b>Objectives:</b>
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<ul><li class="half_rhythm"><div>Describe the etiology of Bertolotti syndrome.</div></li><li class="half_rhythm"><div>Explain the pathophysiology of lumbosacral transitional vertebrae and its association with low back pain.</div></li><li class="half_rhythm"><div>Review the physical exam and imaging findings of patients with Bertolotti syndrome.</div></li><li class="half_rhythm"><div>Outline the treatment considerations for patients with Bertolotti syndrome.</div></li></ul>
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</p></div><div id="article-143324.s2"><h2 id="_article-143324_s2_">Introduction</h2><p>Back pain associated with an anatomical variant of the lumbosacral junction was first described by Bertolotti in 1917.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r1">[1]</a> Thus, low back pain in the presence of any lumbosacral transitional vertebra (LSTV) variant is termed “Bertolotti syndrome.” An LSTV is an aberrant articulation between the L5 vertebra and the sacrum. The most common type of LSTV is the enlargement of unilateral or bilateral L5 transverse processes with the fusion of one or more of those transverse processes to the sacrum.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r2">[2]</a></p><p>The sacrum is the base of the vertebral column and is responsible for distributing upper-body mass across the pelvis. However, the sacrum’s ability to properly distribute the weight of the upper body is affected when it is irregularly fused with L5. Consequently, the L5 transverse processes are larger than patients without an LSTV in order to facilitate load bearing across the smaller sacral surface area. This prevents motion at the L5-S1 junction and leads to increased motion above the affected joint.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r2">[2]</a><a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r3">[3]</a> </p><p>This increase in motion at anatomically normal vertebral levels leads to increased incidences of disc herniation and facet arthrosis. Ultimately, these anomalous connections between L5 and S1 lead to asymmetry of spinal movement and place greater stress on the preceding vertebral level, which is the suspected pain generator in most cases of Bertolotti syndrome.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r2">[2]</a><a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r3">[3]</a></p></div><div id="article-143324.s3"><h2 id="_article-143324_s3_">Etiology</h2><p>The etiology of Bertolotti syndrome remains equivocal. There have been numerous reported instances of family members all suffering from lumbosacral transitional vertebrae, suggesting a possible underlying genetic component. The formation of an LSTV is thought to be associated, in part, with mutations in the HOX10/HOX11 genes. HOX genes, also known as homeobox genes, are responsible for the segmentation of the vertebral column into individual levels.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r2">[2]</a><a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r4">[4]</a> </p><p>Additionally, the formation of the lumbosacral junction is influenced by biomechanical factors, such as how an individual's body weight is transmitted across the SI joints. At this time, Bertolotti syndrome is considered to have a multifactorial etiology that requires further investigation.</p></div><div id="article-143324.s4"><h2 id="_article-143324_s4_">Epidemiology</h2><p>The incidence of Bertolotti syndrome is reportedly between 4% to 8% within the general population.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r1">[1]</a><a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r5">[5]</a><a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r6">[6]</a> However, the incidence of an LSTV is far greater, between 4% to 30%.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r7">[7]</a><a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r8">[8]</a> </p><p>Due to this discrepancy, many specialists believe Bertolotti syndrome has been vastly underdiagnosed. Despite this variability, the prevalence of an LSTV associated with pain is more than twice as common in males than females.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r2">[2]</a><a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r8">[8]</a> </p><p>Additionally, sacralization of L5 has been shown to be more common in males, while lumbarization of the sacrum and the presence of an accessory articulation between L5 and S1 is more common in females.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r2">[2]</a><a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r8">[8]</a></p></div><div id="article-143324.s5"><h2 id="_article-143324_s5_">Pathophysiology</h2><p>Due to the pathological structure and mobility of the lumbosacral junction in patients with Bertolotti syndrome, there are possibly several reasons why pain accompanies an LSTV.</p><p>One possible cause of Bertolotti syndrome may arise from an abnormal iliolumbar ligament.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r9">[9]</a> In a functionally normal anatomical spine, the iliolumbar ligament is partially responsible for stabilizing the spinal column. However, a recent study suggests that the iliolumbar ligament located on the side of the abnormal articulation in patients with Bertolotti syndrome is far underdeveloped compared to its contralateral counterpart.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r10">[10]</a></p><p>Although the transitional articulation may appear to be the most salient source of pain, other associated etiologies that may obfuscate the clinical picture may be discogenic pain and lumbar radiculopathy. There has been an identified association between the presence of an LSTV and disc herniations, as well as facet joint degeneration at the spinal level above the LSTV.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r7">[7]</a> </p><p>The disc located directly above the transitional segment, likely L5-S1, has been commonly degenerated at far greater rates than the disc between the transitional vertebra and the sacrum.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r7">[7]</a><a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r11">[11]</a> </p><p>Stenosis of the intervertebral foramen has been continuously demonstrated in Bertolotti syndrome, likely due to degenerative changes at the facet joints at the level above the LSTV.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r7">[7]</a><a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r12">[12]</a></p></div><div id="article-143324.s6"><h2 id="_article-143324_s6_">History and Physical</h2><p>A thorough history can help to differentiate several possible etiologies of back pain. Patients with Bertolotti syndrome complain of back pain, which may be nonspecific, though other etiologies for pain may confound this. The patient must be specifically probed to determine whether they may be otherwise or adjunctively suffering from concomitant discogenic back pain, facet pain, sacroiliac pain, or radicular pain. </p><p>A full spine exam should be performed in patients suspected of having Bertolotti syndrome to rule out other syndromes such as lumbar spondylosis, degenerative disc disease, lumbar radiculopathy, and neurogenic claudication. Physical examination may reveal nonspecific tenderness or may also be focally tender to touch. They may also demonstrate a decreased range of motion in the office. Provocative maneuvers, reflexes, sensation, and muscle strength should be comprehensively evaluated to rule out other neurological causes of pain.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r7">[7]</a></p></div><div id="article-143324.s7"><h2 id="_article-143324_s7_">Evaluation</h2><p>Imaging is imperative for the accurate diagnosis of Bertolotti syndrome. Plain radiographs of the lumbar spine and pelvis can generally provide ample diagnostic information to show lumbosacral transitional vertebrae.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r13">[13]</a> These are quick, relatively inexpensive, minimize radiation, and should be considered first-line imaging modalities. A Ferguson radiograph, which is an AP view of the lumbosacral junction with 30 degrees of cephalad angulation, may be particularly helpful.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r14">[14]</a> </p><p>\Review of these radiographs may show enlargement of one or both L5 transverse processes, an apophysis of L5 that articulates with the sacrum, or both. The sacroiliac joints commonly appear normal on plain radiographs.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r15">[15]</a></p><p>Advanced imaging in the form of computed tomography (CT) can delineate the lumbosacral junction in greater detail than plain radiographs, especially in patients with greater body habitus, which may obscure the imaging. Osteophyte formation and the extent of fusion at the articulation site can be more carefully scrutinized on CT imaging. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is useful for identifying other lumbar pathologies, including degenerative lumbar intervertebral discs along with disc herniations/annular tears/fissures, as well as areas of sites of neural stenosis.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r13">[13]</a> </p><p>Aside from these added benefits of advanced imaging, CT and MRI can also help with vertebral numbering, which may not be apparent on plain radiographs and are critical for treatment planning.</p><p>There is no particular laboratory workup that is crucial in the diagnosis of Bertolotti syndrome. However, labs may be considered to rule out other inflammatory or malignant processes. Additionally, if the patient is experiencing any degree of radicular symptoms, an electromyogram (EMG) of the lower extremities may be obtained to help diagnose lumbar radiculopathies versus peripheral neuropathies.</p></div><div id="article-143324.s8"><h2 id="_article-143324_s8_">Treatment / Management</h2><p>Initial management of Bertolotti syndrome should consist of conservative measures. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may provide significant relief, are low in cost, and are generally well tolerated. </p><p>Physical therapy (PT) may also be concomitantly recommended at the time of diagnosis, with treatments aimed to strengthen core musculature, improve spinal mobility, and provide other pain-minimizing modalities. If NSAIDs and PT fail to provide adequate relief, the patient may be recommended for injection therapy. Directed corticosteroid injections under fluoroscopic guidance into the abnormal articulation are highly effective in providing pain relief and may last temporarily, if not indefinitely.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r13">[13]</a><a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r16">[16]</a> </p><p>Injection therapy has the added benefit of not only potentially providing therapeutic effects but can also aid in diagnosing a patient's pain generator and help guide definitive management.</p><p>Surgery is reserved for individuals who have failed these aforementioned conservative approaches. Resection of the enlarged transverse process involved in the LSTV, either unilateral or bilateral, can be an initial surgical option if the pseudo articulation has been determined to be the definitive etiology of pain.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r16">[16]</a><a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r17">[17]</a> </p><p>If instability is present at the L5-S1 segment, spinal fusion may be indicated. While fusion may provide long-lasting relief, this may also hasten adjacent segment degeneration. A decompressive operation may also be indicated if there is a symptomatic central canal or foraminal stenosis present. The pseudo articulation may facilitate osteophyte formation, which can also potentially be a source of extraforaminal stenosis.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r16">[16]</a> </p><p>The precise surgical procedure offered to specific patients should be individualized to their symptomatology and unique radiographic findings.</p></div><div id="article-143324.s9"><h2 id="_article-143324_s9_">Differential Diagnosis</h2><p>Patients with Bertolotti syndrome most commonly present with nonspecific low back pain. Unfortunately, the differential diagnosis for low back pain is quite broad, and many can be present simultaneously to cause a multifactorial etiology. Musculoskeletal, neurological, and oncological pathologies should be considered.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r14">[14]</a> </p><p>Common causes of back pain include lumbar strains, degenerative disc disease, lumbar disc herniations, annular tears/fissures, lumbar facet arthropathy, facet cysts, Tarlov cysts, scoliosis, and sacroiliac joint pain.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r18">[18]</a> </p><p>Meticulous history-taking and physical examination can help to exclude several of these other diagnoses.</p><p>When patients experience leg symptoms in addition to lower back pain, providers should also consider compressive lumbar pathologies, including lumbar stenosis/claudication and radiculopathy.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r15">[15]</a><a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r18">[18]</a> </p><p>These entities should be considered along with—and not necessarily exclusive of—Bertolotti syndrome, as lumbar stenosis/radiculopathy can present as back pain in their own right due to their own underlying etiologies. As such, it may be quite common to have tandem reasons for back pain.</p><p>Neoplastic processes should also not be overlooked. Lower back pain unrelieved by conservative measures and in the presence of sudden weight loss/gain, intractable night pain, and otherwise unexplained should raise suspicion for a primary or malignant tumor of the lumbar spine/sacrum/pelvis.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r19">[19]</a> </p><p>Appropriate imaging and labs will help in the diagnosis of malignancy and, if identified, should be referred for oncologic treatment accordingly.</p></div><div id="article-143324.s10"><h2 id="_article-143324_s10_">Prognosis</h2><p>Bertolotti syndrome can cause chronic back pain in undiagnosed individuals. Conservative management, such as pharmacotherapy, physical therapy, and steroid injections, have been shown to have varying benefits and may provide temporary or potentially definitive relief.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r16">[16]</a> </p><p>Those who exhaust these conservative measures and undergo surgical treatment tend to report an improvement in their quality of life but may still have an incomplete resolution of symptoms.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r20">[20]</a> </p><p>Ultimately, each patient should be approached independently and have their treatment tailored to their lifestyle and needs.</p></div><div id="article-143324.s11"><h2 id="_article-143324_s11_">Complications</h2><p>The LSTV of Bertolotti syndrome is a nidus for abnormal mobility and mechanics of the spine. Consequently, greater stress is typically dispersed onto the adjacent segments of motion. These increased forces that the adjacent segment experiences are at risk for accelerated disc and facet joint degeneration, arthrosis, and, ultimately, neural stenosis.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r7">[7]</a> </p><p>The surgical treatments for Bertolotti syndrome carry their inherent risks. As with all surgical procedures, there is a risk of bleeding at the surgical site, infection, and the need for the patient to have future operations if the first was unsuccessful. These procedures also risk nerve injury due to the surgery’s proximity to the nerve root canal and the spinal cord.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r17">[17]</a><a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r21">[21]</a> </p><p>Although surgical complications are rare, it is imperative to discuss these with the patient.</p></div><div id="article-143324.s12"><h2 id="_article-143324_s12_">Deterrence and Patient Education</h2><p>Bertolotti syndrome is congenital. Deterrence is not possible, but early and frequent patient education may help patients avoid the sequelae of chronic pain. That is why the early and accurate diagnosis of this condition is critical.</p><p>Patients should be informed of any abnormal connections or anatomy within the spine as soon as it is identified and should be counseled on how that may affect their mobility and quality of life. They should also be counseled on the importance of maintaining their activity level and be given resources on preventative stretching and therapy to try and decrease any muscular strain secondary to the abnormal vertebral connection.</p></div><div id="article-143324.s13"><h2 id="_article-143324_s13_">Enhancing Healthcare Team Outcomes </h2><p>Numerous healthcare providers may participate in caring for a patient with Bertolotti syndrome. The first person to whom a patient speaks about chronic low back pain should keep the possibility of a lumbosacral transitional vertebra in mind when conducting a workup. This duty may fall on a primary care physician, a nurse practitioner, a physician's assistant, or a chiropractor. Their workup should include conservative but diagnostic measures, such as radiographic imaging, pharmacotherapy to relieve their pain, and the option to be referred to a pain management specialist if the condition persists.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r18">[18]</a><a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r22">[22]</a> </p><p>If the patient does meet with a pain management physician, the pain management physician must maintain an open line of communication with the patient's primary care provider so that there is a seamless transfer of diagnoses, test results, and treatment options. The pain management physician may conduct fluoroscopic guided injections for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes and prescribe a greater diversity of pain medications with close follow-up in mind.<a class="bk_pop" href="#article-143324.r22">[22]</a> </p><p>The patient may not see a pain management clinician but may instead see a surgeon to have definitive removal of their aberrant vertebral connection. The surgeon may suggest continued conservative treatment but may also recommend a surgical procedure to relieve the patient's pain and future risk for sequelae of the LSTV. The most important aspect of a patient's care with Bertolotti syndrome is communication between all members of the interprofessional healthcare team to ensure accurate diagnosis and optimal treatment.</p></div><div id="article-143324.s14"><h2 id="_article-143324_s14_">Review Questions</h2><ul><li class="half_rhythm"><div>
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</div></li></ul></div><div id="article-143324.s15"><h2 id="_article-143324_s15_">References</h2><dl class="temp-labeled-list"><dt>1.</dt><dd><div class="bk_ref" id="article-143324.r1">Quinlan JF, Duke D, Eustace S. Bertolotti's syndrome. A cause of back pain in young people. <span><span class="ref-journal">J Bone Joint Surg Br. </span>2006 Sep;<span class="ref-vol">88</span>(9):1183-6.</span> [<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16943469" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pubmed">PubMed<span class="bk_prnt">: 16943469</span></a>]</div></dd><dt>2.</dt><dd><div class="bk_ref" id="article-143324.r2">Jancuska JM, Spivak JM, Bendo JA. A Review of Symptomatic Lumbosacral Transitional Vertebrae: Bertolotti's Syndrome. <span><span class="ref-journal">Int J Spine Surg. </span>2015;<span class="ref-vol">9</span>:42.</span> [<a href="/pmc/articles/PMC4603258/" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pmc">PMC free article<span class="bk_prnt">: PMC4603258</span></a>] [<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26484005" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pubmed">PubMed<span class="bk_prnt">: 26484005</span></a>]</div></dd><dt>3.</dt><dd><div class="bk_ref" id="article-143324.r3">Alonzo F, Cobar A, Cahueque M, Prieto JA. Bertolotti's syndrome: an underdiagnosed cause for lower back pain. <span><span class="ref-journal">J Surg Case Rep. </span>2018 Oct;<span class="ref-vol">2018</span>(10):rjy276.</span> [<a href="/pmc/articles/PMC6191822/" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pmc">PMC free article<span class="bk_prnt">: PMC6191822</span></a>] [<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30356933" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pubmed">PubMed<span class="bk_prnt">: 30356933</span></a>]</div></dd><dt>4.</dt><dd><div class="bk_ref" id="article-143324.r4">Wellik DM, Capecchi MR. 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[Clinical significance of lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (Bertolotti syndrome)]. <span><span class="ref-journal">Orv Hetil. </span>1993 Nov 14;<span class="ref-vol">134</span>(46):2537-40.</span> [<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8233471" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pubmed">PubMed<span class="bk_prnt">: 8233471</span></a>]</div></dd><dt>7.</dt><dd><div class="bk_ref" id="article-143324.r7">Paraskevas G, Tzaveas A, Koutras G, Natsis K. Lumbosacral transitional vertebra causing Bertolotti's syndrome: a case report and review of the literature. <span><span class="ref-journal">Cases J. </span>2009 Jul 06;<span class="ref-vol">2</span>:8320.</span> [<a href="/pmc/articles/PMC2740102/" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pmc">PMC free article<span class="bk_prnt">: PMC2740102</span></a>] [<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19830065" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pubmed">PubMed<span class="bk_prnt">: 19830065</span></a>]</div></dd><dt>8.</dt><dd><div class="bk_ref" id="article-143324.r8">McGrath K, Schmidt E, Rabah N, Abubakr M, Steinmetz M. Clinical assessment and management of Bertolotti Syndrome: a review of the literature. <span><span class="ref-journal">Spine J. </span>2021 Aug;<span class="ref-vol">21</span>(8):1286-1296.</span> [<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33676018" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pubmed">PubMed<span class="bk_prnt">: 33676018</span></a>]</div></dd><dt>9.</dt><dd><div class="bk_ref" id="article-143324.r9">Sims JA, Moorman SJ. The role of the iliolumbar ligament in low back pain. <span><span class="ref-journal">Med Hypotheses. </span>1996 Jun;<span class="ref-vol">46</span>(6):511-5.</span> [<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8803933" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pubmed">PubMed<span class="bk_prnt">: 8803933</span></a>]</div></dd><dt>10.</dt><dd><div class="bk_ref" id="article-143324.r10">McGrath KA, Lee J, Thompson NR, Kanasz J, Steinmetz MP. Identifying the relationship between lumbar sacralization and adjacent ligamentous anatomy in patients with Bertolotti syndrome and healthy controls. <span><span class="ref-journal">J Neurosurg Spine. </span>2022 Aug 01;<span class="ref-vol">37</span>(2):200-207.</span> [<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35148504" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pubmed">PubMed<span class="bk_prnt">: 35148504</span></a>]</div></dd><dt>11.</dt><dd><div class="bk_ref" id="article-143324.r11">Otani K, Konno S, Kikuchi S. Lumbosacral transitional vertebrae and nerve-root symptoms. <span><span class="ref-journal">J Bone Joint Surg Br. </span>2001 Nov;<span class="ref-vol">83</span>(8):1137-40.</span> [<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11764427" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pubmed">PubMed<span class="bk_prnt">: 11764427</span></a>]</div></dd><dt>12.</dt><dd><div class="bk_ref" id="article-143324.r12">Vergauwen S, Parizel PM, van Breusegem L, Van Goethem JW, Nackaerts Y, Van den Hauwe L, De Schepper AM. Distribution and incidence of degenerative spine changes in patients with a lumbo-sacral transitional vertebra. <span><span class="ref-journal">Eur Spine J. </span>1997;<span class="ref-vol">6</span>(3):168-72.</span> [<a href="/pmc/articles/PMC3454625/" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pmc">PMC free article<span class="bk_prnt">: PMC3454625</span></a>] [<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9258634" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pubmed">PubMed<span class="bk_prnt">: 9258634</span></a>]</div></dd><dt>13.</dt><dd><div class="bk_ref" id="article-143324.r13">Almeida DB, Mattei TA, Sória MG, Prandini MN, Leal AG, Milano JB, Ramina R. Transitional lumbosacral vertebrae and low back pain: diagnostic pitfalls and management of Bertolotti's syndrome. <span><span class="ref-journal">Arq Neuropsiquiatr. </span>2009 Jun;<span class="ref-vol">67</span>(2A):268-72.</span> [<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19547821" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pubmed">PubMed<span class="bk_prnt">: 19547821</span></a>]</div></dd><dt>14.</dt><dd><div class="bk_ref" id="article-143324.r14">Ravikanth R, Majumdar P. Bertolotti's syndrome in low-backache population: Classification and imaging findings. <span><span class="ref-journal">Tzu Chi Med J. </span>2019 Apr-Jun;<span class="ref-vol">31</span>(2):90-95.</span> [<a href="/pmc/articles/PMC6450150/" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pmc">PMC free article<span class="bk_prnt">: PMC6450150</span></a>] [<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31007488" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pubmed">PubMed<span class="bk_prnt">: 31007488</span></a>]</div></dd><dt>15.</dt><dd><div class="bk_ref" id="article-143324.r15">Neelakantan S, Anandarajan R, Shyam K, Philip B. Multimodality imaging in Bertolotti's syndrome: an important cause of low back pain in young adults. <span><span class="ref-journal">BMJ Case Rep. </span>2016 Nov 14;<span class="ref-vol">2016</span></span> [<a href="/pmc/articles/PMC5129031/" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pmc">PMC free article<span class="bk_prnt">: PMC5129031</span></a>] [<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27873760" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pubmed">PubMed<span class="bk_prnt">: 27873760</span></a>]</div></dd><dt>16.</dt><dd><div class="bk_ref" id="article-143324.r16">Crane J, Cragon R, O'Neill J, Berger AA, Kassem H, Sherman WF, Paladini A, Varrassi G, Odisho AS, Miriyala S, Kaye AD. A Comprehensive Update of the Treatment and Management of Bertolotti's Syndrome: A Best Practices Review. <span><span class="ref-journal">Orthop Rev (Pavia). </span>2021;<span class="ref-vol">13</span>(2):24980.</span> [<a href="/pmc/articles/PMC8567758/" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pmc">PMC free article<span class="bk_prnt">: PMC8567758</span></a>] [<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34745474" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pubmed">PubMed<span class="bk_prnt">: 34745474</span></a>]</div></dd><dt>17.</dt><dd><div class="bk_ref" id="article-143324.r17">Mikula AL, Lakomkin N, Ransom RC, Flanigan PM, Waksdahl LA, Pennington Z, Sharma MS, Elder BD, Fogelson JL. Operative Treatment of Bertolotti Syndrome: Resection Versus Fusion. <span><span class="ref-journal">World Neurosurg. </span>2022 Sep;<span class="ref-vol">165</span>:e311-e316.</span> [<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35717016" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pubmed">PubMed<span class="bk_prnt">: 35717016</span></a>]</div></dd><dt>18.</dt><dd><div class="bk_ref" id="article-143324.r18">Jain A, Agarwal A, Jain S, Shamshery C. Bertolotti syndrome: a diagnostic and management dilemma for pain physicians. <span><span class="ref-journal">Korean J Pain. </span>2013 Oct;<span class="ref-vol">26</span>(4):368-73.</span> [<a href="/pmc/articles/PMC3800709/" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pmc">PMC free article<span class="bk_prnt">: PMC3800709</span></a>] [<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24156003" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pubmed">PubMed<span class="bk_prnt">: 24156003</span></a>]</div></dd><dt>19.</dt><dd><div class="bk_ref" id="article-143324.r19">Myung MJ, Lee KM, Kim HG, Kim EJ, Ryu KN. Multiple myeloma with intractable lumbar pain and diagnostic challenge with MRI: A case report. <span><span class="ref-journal">Radiol Case Rep. </span>2021 Mar;<span class="ref-vol">16</span>(3):723-727.</span> [<a href="/pmc/articles/PMC7815491/" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pmc">PMC free article<span class="bk_prnt">: PMC7815491</span></a>] [<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33505559" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pubmed">PubMed<span class="bk_prnt">: 33505559</span></a>]</div></dd><dt>20.</dt><dd><div class="bk_ref" id="article-143324.r20">McGrath KA, Thompson NR, Fisher E, Kanasz J, Golubovsky JL, Steinmetz MP. Quality-of-life and postoperative satisfaction following pseudoarthrectomy in patients with Bertolotti syndrome. <span><span class="ref-journal">Spine J. </span>2022 Aug;<span class="ref-vol">22</span>(8):1292-1300.</span> [<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35189349" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pubmed">PubMed<span class="bk_prnt">: 35189349</span></a>]</div></dd><dt>21.</dt><dd><div class="bk_ref" id="article-143324.r21">Sumarriva G, Cook B, Celestre P. Surgical Resection of Bertolotti Syndrome. <span><span class="ref-journal">Ochsner J. </span>2022 Spring;<span class="ref-vol">22</span>(1):76-79.</span> [<a href="/pmc/articles/PMC8929233/" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pmc">PMC free article<span class="bk_prnt">: PMC8929233</span></a>] [<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35355636" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pubmed">PubMed<span class="bk_prnt">: 35355636</span></a>]</div></dd><dt>22.</dt><dd><div class="bk_ref" id="article-143324.r22">Golubovsky JL, Momin A, Thompson NR, Steinmetz MP. Understanding quality of life and treatment history of patients with Bertolotti syndrome compared with lumbosacral radiculopathy. <span><span class="ref-journal">J Neurosurg Spine. </span>2019 Aug 01;<span class="ref-vol">31</span>(2):222-228.</span> [<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31003219" ref="pagearea=cite-ref&targetsite=entrez&targetcat=link&targettype=pubmed">PubMed<span class="bk_prnt">: 31003219</span></a>]</div></dd></dl></div><div><dl class="temp-labeled-list small"><dt></dt><dd><div><p class="no_top_margin">
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