Summary
Objective: To report feasibility and outcome of multiple thoracolumbar partial lateral corpectomies
(TLPLCs) in dogs with predominantly ventral spinal cord compression caused by intervertebral
disc disease (IVDD) in the light of reported decreased spinal stability following
single TLPLC. Material und methods: In a retrospective study the records of dogs treated by multiple TLPLCs for ventral
spinal cord compression caused by Hansen type I or type II IVDD were reviewed. Presurgical
spinal cord compression and postsurgical decompression, as well as slot dimensions
were determined based on computed tomography (CT)-myelography images. Neurological
outcome was assessed based on repetitive examinations applying a modified Frankel
Score as well as on an owner questionnaire. Results: Seventeen dogs with a mean body weight of 20.3 kg (range 4.0–49.0 kg) were included.
Fourteen dogs had two TLPLCs, two dogs had three TLPLCs and one dog had four TLPLCs
performed. The mean slot depth was 63% of entire vertebral body width, the mean slot
height was 29% of the entire vertebral body height, the mean slot length was 25% of
the entire vertebral body length and the mean residual vertebral interslot length
between two adjacent TLPLCs was 55% of the vertebral body length. At reevaluation
4 weeks after surgery, 6/17 dogs (35.3%) had the same modified Frankel Score as before
surgery, whereas 11/17 dogs (64.7%) showed a neurological improvement. According to
the owners 78.5% of dogs were walking normally within 6 months after surgery. The
mean survival time of 16 dogs, where follow-up was available, was 951 days. Conclusion and clinical relevance: Mul - tiple spinal cord compressions caused by IVDD can be eliminated by multiple,
even consecutive, TLPLCs without the risk of a clinically significant risk of spinal
instability.
Keywords
Spinal cord compression - decompression - intervertebral disc disease
