Abstract
AbstractWe describe the surgical reduction of a traumatic, unilateral cervical vertebral facet joint luxation in a large breed dog. Computed tomography (CT) including CT myelography revealed complete luxation of the left articular processes C6 to C7 without fracture of the main weight-bearing structures. There was marked spinal cord compression secondary to the malalignment. Due to the non-ambulatory tetraparetic status, open reduction was chosen as the treatment of choice. After making a dorsal surgical approach to the caudal cervical spine, the luxated articular processes were visible and repositioned. Owing to marked mobility of this joint, temporary stabilization with a nonabsorbable suture between the spinous processes of C6 and C7 was performed and good stability was obtained. The dog recovered uneventfully from the surgery and regained normal ambulation. Follow-up examination including a second CT 9 months after surgery showed no neurological abnormalities and unrestricted motion of the neck. Normal cervical vertebral alignment with moderate osteoarthritis of the right facet joint and mild spondylosis deformans C6 to C7 were present. The present case report shows successful management of a traumatic cervical facet joint luxation without persistent neurological deficits. Open reduction and temporary stabilization with suture material seem to be a valuable method of treatment. The dorsal approach allowed direct inspection of the facet joints with concurrent access to place suture material for temporary stabilization.
Highlights
Vertebral fractures and luxations account for 7.1% of dogs diagnosed with neurological problems.[1]
We describe the surgical reduction of a traumatic, unilateral cervical vertebral facet joint luxation in a large breed dog
We report a complete unilateral luxation of the left sixth to seventh cervical vertebral (C6–C7) facet joint, with dorsal displacement of the cranial articular process and subsequent open surgical reduction without partial facetectomy and temporary dorsal stabilization in a dog
Summary
Vertebral fractures and luxations account for 7.1% of dogs diagnosed with neurological problems.[1] The thoracolumbar[2,3] and the lumbar[4] vertebral column are reported to be most commonly affected in canine patients. Larger dogs have a higher risk for vertebral luxation, most likely because the bone is relatively thicker and less prone to fractures. Torsional forces are the common cause of luxations, frequently they are accompanied by fractures of those structures.[7] We report a complete unilateral luxation of the left sixth to seventh cervical vertebral (C6–C7) facet joint, with dorsal displacement of the cranial articular process and subsequent open surgical reduction without partial facetectomy and temporary dorsal stabilization in a dog
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