Thoracic and Lumbar Spinal Fractures and Luxations in 26 Dogs and 2 Cats—Stabilization by String of Pearls Locking Plates

Abstract

Abstract Objective To evaluate the use of String of Pearls (SOP) locking plates in thoracolumbar vertebral fractures and luxations in dogs and cats. Study design Retrospective case series study. Methods Clinical records of dogs and cats with thoracic and lumbar fractures treated in four veterinary surgical facilities were reviewed. Results A total of 26 dogs and 2 cats were included. Median weight of dogs at surgery was 12.1 kg (range: 2.7–37.2 kg) and the median weight of cats was 6.0 kg (range: 3.0–8.9 kg). Deep pain perception was negative in 25% (7/28) of animals at presentation, and 85.7% (6/7) regained deep pain sensation at discharge. Neurological status at discharge (p < 0.05) was significantly improved compared to neurological status at presentation. Complications were observed in 28.6% (8/28) of cases. Catastrophic and major complication rates were both 3.6% (1/28). Conclusion In the reported cohort of 28 dogs and cats, SOP locking plates successfully stabilized traumatic thoracic and lumbar fractures or luxations, and the rate of complications was similar to those reported using other fixation methods.