Bicortical implant insertion in caudal cervical spondylomyelopathy: a computed tomography simulation in affected Doberman Pinschers

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the safety of the angle of insertion of bicortical implants in Doberman Pinschers affected by caudal cervical spondylomyelopathy (CCSM) using simulation on computed tomography (CT) images.

Animals: Doberman Pinschers (n=9) with dynamic spinal compression attributed to CCSM.

Methods: Dogs had CT evaluation of the cervical vertebral column. Digital images were used to evaluate the safety of bicortical implant insertion from the midline at 30, 35, and 40 degrees inclination by drawing a line simulating implant position. Correct surgical positioning of dogs was evaluated by measuring the degree of rotation of the spine along the longitudinal axis.

Results: Insertion of an implant at 30, 35, and 40 degrees inclination was considered safe in 42%, 59%, and 67% of selected sites. Rotation of the spine from 9 degrees counter clockwise to 10 degrees clockwise along the longitudinal axis occurred in 53% of the areas considered.

Conclusions: These results suggest that bicortical implants in the caudal cervical area in Doberman Pinschers affected by CCSM carry a high risk of vertebral canal and intervertebral foramina violation.

Clinical relevance: Bicortical implants inserted at 30 and 35 degrees in the caudal cervical area in Doberman Pinschers affected by CCSM carry a high risk of vertebral canal and intervertebral foramina violation. CT planning for individual dogs can facilitate selection of the appropriate insertion plane and vertebral column rotation needs to be considered in surgical planning.