A method for intervertebral space distraction before stabilization combined with complete ventral slot for treatment of disc-associated wobbler syndrome in dogs.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the use of a modified K-wire spacer for maintaining intervertebral distraction after ventral decompression and during stabilization as a treatment for disc-associated wobbler syndrome in large breed dogs.


METHODS
A retrospective study.


METHODS
Dogs (n=7) with disc-associated wobbler syndrome.


METHODS
Medical records (2003-2006) of dogs treated by a modified surgical method were evaluated. Data retrieved were signalment, onset and duration of clinical signs, neurologic abnormalities, diagnostic methods, surgical procedure, immediate, and long-term (>or=1 year) postoperative clinical and radiographic outcome.


RESULTS
Mean duration of clinical signs was 4.8 months. Neurologic signs included ataxia (2), ambulatory tetraparesis (2), and non-ambulatory tetraparesis (3). Three dogs had disc protrusion in 2 sites, 2 dogs had the procedure in 1 location and stabilization of both affected sites. All dogs improved dramatically and remained for 1-3 years. One dog had recurrence of cervical discomfort 13 months later.


CONCLUSIONS
Despite the limited number of dogs, overall initial successful outcome with only 1 dog having mild recurrence 13 months later supports further use and evaluation of this technique.


CONCLUSIONS
Distraction using a K-wire spacer after ventral decompression followed by stabilization should be considered in dogs with disc-associated wobbler syndrome to prevent collapse of the intervertebral space.
Shamir
Merav H
MH
Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel. shamir@agri.huji.ac.il
Chai
Orit
O
Loeb
Emmanuel
E
D000818:Animals; D001848:Bone Diseases, Developmental / Q000601:surgery / Q000662:veterinary*; D019299:Decompression, Surgical / Q000662:veterinary*; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D004285:Dogs; D005260:Female; D007405:Intervertebral Disc Displacement / Q000601:surgery / Q000662:veterinary*; D007557:Israel / Q000453:epidemiology; D008297:Male; D011859:Radiography; D011996:Records; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014730:Veterinary Medicine