Use of ventral cervical stabilization for treatment of a suspected articular facet fracture in a horse.
A 3-year-old Thoroughbred filly examined because of poor performance after a fall was found to be ataxic. Radiography revealed a linear defect in the right dorsal cranial articular facet of the fifth cervical vertebra. The defect was thought to be a fracture or a developmental defect. Arthrodesis and stabilization were achieved by ventral implantation of a Bagby basket in the articulation between the fourth and fifth cervical vertebrae. The ataxia resolved within 4 months, and the filly was able to resume full race training.
Smyth
G B
GB
Department of Large Animal Surgery and Medicine, Auburn University, AL 36849-5522.
D000818:Animals; D001259:Ataxia / Q000209:etiology / Q000662:veterinary*; D002574:Cervical Vertebrae / Q000293:injuries*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D006736:Horses / Q000293:injuries*; D013117:Spinal Cord Compression / Q000209:etiology / Q000662:veterinary; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000150:complications / Q000601:surgery / Q000662:veterinary*; D013123:Spinal Fusion / Q000662:veterinary*