Spondylolisthesis is the forward (anterolisthesis) or backward (retrolisthesis) slipping of one vertebrae on an adjacent one, that occurs usually at the base of the spine,from a number of causes. It can lead to a deformity of the spine, narrowing of the spinal canal and compression of exiting nerve roots. It is easily diagnosed by plain lateral x-rays and is graded (Grades I to V) according to the percentage of slip. The optimal management of high-grade (III-V) spondylolisthesis in the growing child is controversial as surgical interventions result in >10% risk of complications/neurologic injury.

A study of 49 patients (mean age 12.6 years) treated either surgically or non-operatively for high grade spondylolisthesis and followed to age 20.1 years (mean) finds no outcome differences between the groups. Non-operative "watchful waiting" in a minimally/asymptomatic child appears safe.

Data collected and analyzed of 10,930 adolescents aged 14-17 years (form 6 European countries) on usage of social networking sites (SNS) indicates that 70% use online communication tools.  

40% spend 2 hours or more daily on SNS and this in young adolescents (14.9-15.9 years) results in more internalizing problems, lower academic scores and less physical activity. Interestingly, in older adolescents heavy SNS use appears to be of value with offline social competence.

A study comparing the incidences of adenoidectomy and tonsillectomy of normal and renal transplant children indicates that patients who receive a renal transplant are at significantly greater risk of adenotonsillar hyperplasia requiring surgery (especially males and young recipients).

Journal of Pediatric Nephrology