Examination of a new arthrodesis technique for equine cervical vertebrae

[摘要] Objectives – To investigate a new technique for fusion of equine cervical vertebrae: 1. Report the findings from a single case. 2. Examine the biomechanical properties of the construct in cadaver specimens and compare the biomechanical properties with the currently used arthrodesis technique. Study design – Case report, followed by two in vitro biomechanical investigations. Sample population – Single case for the case report then cadaveric adult equine cervical vertebral columns for biomechanical testing.Methods –A three month old foal with cervical stenotic myelopathy was deemed too small for treatment with a kerf cut cylinder, so arthrodesis was performed using a ventrally placed locking compression plate. The case was followed and reported. A test modulus was developed to allow biomechanical testing of a single cervical vertebral articulation and the biomechanical properties of different implants were investigated. The investigation was followed by further investigation in different loading directions.Results –The foal responded well to treatment and had improved 2.5 neurological grades by 30 months post-operatively.Results of the two biomechanical studies demonstrated that the biomechanical properties of the LCP construct were comparable to superior to the KCC constructs in flexion, extension and lateral flexion.Conclusions –The LCP technique has potential as an arthrodesis technique for equine cervical vertebrae. Evaluation of the technique in live adult cases is warranted.

[发布机构] University:University of Glasgow;Department:School of Veterinary Medicine

[关键词] Horse, Arthrodesis, Cervical Vertebral Myelopathy, Locking Compression Plate