Stabilization using screws, wire, and PMMA for traumatic cervical fracture in a Maltese dog

Abstract

A 2-year-old, 2 kg Maltese dog was evaluated for progressive tetraparesis and neck pain. The dog had been treated with steroids for the preceding 2 weeks after unknown trauma but was deteriorating progressively and had become tetraparetic. The dog was presented with a non-ambulatory tetraparesis. Radiographic and computed tomographic examinations revealed a transverse C2 fracture with subluxation of the atlantoaxial joint and C2-C3. In addition, hydrocephalus was observed on magnetic resonance imaging. Stabilization of C1-C3 using screws, wires, and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) was performed. Application of ventral screws, wires, and PMMA resulted in improvement of the clinical signs after 4 weeks, and the dog could walk as before the tetraparesis 6 weeks after the operation. This stabilization method is an effective surgical treatment for management of cervical instability. ? 2014, Korean Society of Veterinary Clinics. All rights reserved.