Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Surgery for spinal cord compression in dogs and cats
By Bray, Kathryn Y et al.·Published in Open veterinary journal·2020·Carolina Veterinary Specialists, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: An update on hemilaminectomy of the cranial thoracic spine: Review of six cases.
Plain-English summary
A 5-year-old mixed-breed dog and a 7-year-old domestic shorthair cat were both brought in for spinal cord compression in the upper back, causing mobility issues. They underwent a specialized surgery called hemilaminectomy, which involved careful positioning to minimize damage to surrounding tissues. After the surgery, both pets were able to go home within five days, and four out of the six animals showed improvement in their movement and overall neurologic function. This approach seems effective for treating spinal cord issues in pets.
People also search for: dog spinal cord compression surgery · cat back surgery recovery · hemilaminectomy for dogs and cats
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The optimal surgical approach to relieve spinal cord compression in the cranial thoracic spine is not well described, and the anatomy of the cranial thoracic vertebrae creates added surgical difficulty. AIM: This study describes the surgical approach, treatment, and outcome of three dogs and three cats that underwent a cranial thoracic hemilaminectomy for the treatment of extradural spinal cord compression. Surgical positioning was tailored to avoid extensive dissection and provide for a restricted, careful approach. METHODS: Three dogs and three cats presenting for cranial thoracic spinal cord compression requiring surgical intervention were included. RESULTS: All patients were discharged within 5 days. No patients experienced postoperative deterioration in neurologic status, and four animals had improved neurologic status at discharge. CONCLUSION: In cases with cranial thoracic spinal cord compression, the spinous processes can be spared, extensive muscle dissection minimized, and successful outcomes achieved with the appropriate positioning and limited approach.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32426252/