Vertebral stabilization using positively threaded profile pins and polymethylmethacrylate, with or without laminectomy, for spinal canal stenosis and vertebral instability caused by congenital thoracic vertebral anomalies.
OBJECTIVE
To describe diagnostic findings, surgical technique, and outcome in dogs with thoracic spinal canal stenosis and vertebral instability secondary to congenital vertebral anomalies.


METHODS
Retrospective clinical study.


METHODS
Dogs (n=9) with thoracic spinal canal stenosis.


METHODS
Medical records (1995-1996; 2000-2006) of 9 dogs with a myelographic diagnosis of spinal canal stenosis and/or vertebral instability secondary to congenital vertebral anomaly that were surgically managed by vertebral stabilization with or without laminectomy were reviewed. Data on pre- and postoperative neurologic status, diagnostic findings, surgical techniques, and outcomes were retrieved. Follow-up evaluations were performed at 1, 2, and 6 months. Long-term outcome was assessed by means of clinical examination or owner telephone interviews.


RESULTS
Spinal cord compression was confirmed by myelography, and in 2 dogs, dynamic compression by stress myelography. Eight dogs regained the ability to ambulate postoperatively. One dog with a partial recovery regained voluntary movement but did not become ambulatory.


CONCLUSIONS
Spinal cord injury secondary to congenital vertebral anomaly may have a good outcome when treated by vertebral stabilization with or without laminectomy. Adequate stabilization of the vertebrae and improved neurologic outcome were achieved in most dogs.


CONCLUSIONS
Vertebral stabilization using positively threaded profile pins and polymethylmethacrylate with or without laminectomy is an effective treatment for spinal canal stenosis and vertebral instability secondary to congenital thoracic vertebral anomalies.
Aikawa
Takeshi
T
Aikawa Veterinary Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan. taikawa@wb3.so-net.ne.jp
Kanazono
Shinichi
S
Yoshigae
Yuki
Y
Sharp
Nicholas J H
NJ
Muñana
Karen R
KR
D000818:Animals; D001858:Bone Nails / Q000662:veterinary; D003251:Constriction, Pathologic / Q000662:veterinary; D019299:Decompression, Surgical / Q000379:methods / Q000662:veterinary*; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000151:congenital / Q000601:surgery*; D004285:Dogs; D005260:Female; D007796:Laminectomy / Q000379:methods / Q000662:veterinary*; D008297:Male; D019635:Neurosurgical Procedures / Q000379:methods / Q000662:veterinary*; D011788:Quality of Life; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013115:Spinal Canal / Q000601:surgery; D013118:Spinal Cord Diseases / Q000601:surgery / Q000662:veterinary*; D013123:Spinal Fusion / Q000379:methods / Q000662:veterinary; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013904:Thoracic Vertebrae / Q000002:abnormalities* / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome