Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
3D printed implant to treat neck disc disease in dogs
By Joffe, Michelle R et al.·Published in Veterinary and comparative orthopaedics and traumatology : V.C.O.T·2019·Sydney School of Veterinary Science, United Kingdom·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Development of a Customized Interbody Fusion Device for Treatment of Canine Disc-Associated Cervical Spondylomyelopathy.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
Two dogs with cervical spondylomyelopathy (a spinal condition causing neck pain and neurological issues) were treated with a specially designed 3D-printed device to help stabilize their spines. After the implants were placed, both dogs showed improvement in their neurological health over six months, with the devices helping to restore the space between their vertebrae. The implants did shift slightly but did not cause any significant problems. Overall, the treatment was successful, leading to better mobility and comfort for the dogs.
People also search for: dog neck pain treatment · cervical spondylomyelopathy in dogs · 3D printed spine implant for dogs
Abstract
OBJECTIVES:  The main purpose of this study was to design, manufacture and implant a customized three-dimensional (3D) printed, intervertebral spacer to treat disc-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy (DACSM) in dogs. This study also used advanced imaging to assess implant movement, subsidence and interbody fusion. ANIMALS:  Two client-owned dogs with DACSM. METHOD:  Customized interbody devices were designed and 3D printed in titanium alloy. The devices were implanted in dogs diagnosed with DACSM. The dogs were evaluated at time points 0, 2 and 6 months to determine clinical outcome, degree of interbody fusion, implant migration and subsidence. RESULTS:  Progressive fusion was noted across the affected intervertebral space by 6 months. Implants mildly shifted cranially in the 2-month interim. There was no subsidence of the intervertebral device through the vertebral end plates in dog 1 and minimal in dog 2 (∼0.5 mm). Clinically, the neurological status improved in both dogs. CONCLUSIONS:  The customized interbody devices restored the intervertebral space and resulted in a degree of interbody fusion and resolution of clinical signs. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE:  This report illustrates preliminary outcomes of DACSM treated with a customized, end plate conforming, intervertebral device. Collaboration between clinicians and engineers with advanced manufacturing technologies can provide a cutting-edge standard of care for patients suffering from DACSM.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30646415/