Caudal cervical arthrodesis using a distractable fusion cage in a dog

Abstract

SummaryThis case report describes a cervical fusion cage, surgical technique and the long-term outcome of caudal cervical arthrodesis used to stabilise dynamic spinal cord compression at the sixth and seventh cervical intervertebral disc space (C6, C7) in a dog. A seven-year-old, 41 kg, entire male Dobermann Pinscher was admitted for progressive ataxia of two weeks duration. Neurological examination revealed ambulatory tetraparesis. Computed tomographic myelogram scans in neutral and traction positions of the neck were performed and were used to determine presence of a dynamic component. A C6-C7 surgical distraction and stabilisation using a distractable intervertebral fusion cage was performed. There was not any deterioration of neurological status was observed on postoperative neurological evaluation. Within eight weeks after surgery, gait and postural abilities had returned to normal. Computed tomography evaluation indicated a complete bridging callus within and outside the cage at 15 weeks after surgery. There were not any complications or recurrences of initial neurological deficits observed during the 40 month follow-up period. Based on the follow-up period data, a C6-C7 dynamic spinal cord compression with disc protrusion was successfully treated by a distractable cervical fusion cage.