Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Surgery to stabilize neck problems in two cats with limb weakness
By Nakata, Kohei et al.·Published in The Journal of veterinary medical science·2026·The Animal Medical Center of Gifu University, Japan·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Surgical stabilization of craniocervical junction abnormalities in two cats.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
Two cats were brought in because they were having trouble moving their legs and showed signs of coordination issues. After imaging tests, they were diagnosed with craniocervical junction abnormalities, which can affect the spinal cord. Both cats underwent surgery to stabilize the affected area using a custom titanium plate. While the surgery helped improve their ability to walk, they still had some coordination problems afterward. This suggests that while surgery can be beneficial, it may not fully resolve all symptoms.
People also search for: cat ataxia treatment · cat surgery for neck problems · craniocervical junction abnormalities in cats
Abstract
Two cats were evaluated because of clinical signs consistent with tetraplegia or ataxia of four limbs and cerebellar signs. The cats were diagnosed with craniocervical junction abnormalities (CJAs) by radiographs, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Both cats underwent surgical stabilization using a patient-specific titanium atlantoaxial (AA) fixation plate and drill guide templates. In case 2, in addition to AA fixation, the separated dens and the occipital bone compressing the cerebellum were removed. Repositioning and fixation of the AA joint using a custom drill guide template and titanium plate system improved the gait of both cats, but the cerebellar signs persisted. Although CJAs are uncommon in cats, the present cases indicate that surgical stabilization with a custom fixation system may represent a feasible treatment option.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41320251/