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Bonelli MDA, da Costa RC. Magnetic resonance imaging and neurologic characterization of combined osseous- and disc-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy in dogs. J Vet Intern Med 2023; 37:1418-1427. [PMID: 37314024 PMCID: PMC10365061 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.16792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although both disc- or osseous-associated forms of cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM) are observed in the same dogs, this combined form has not been thoroughly evaluated. OBJECTIVES To describe imaging characteristics of dogs with concurrent disc- and osseous CSM and investigate an association between findings on neurological examination and imaging. ANIMALS Sixty dogs with disc and osseous-associated CSM from 232 CSM-affected dogs. METHODS Retrospective study. Dogs diagnosed via high-field MRI with a combination of intervertebral disc (IVD) protrusion and osseous proliferation of articular processes, dorsal lamina, or both were identified. Large and giant breed dogs were grouped according to whether combined compressions were at the same site or different sites. Statistical methods were used to investigate the association and relationship between variables. RESULTS Thirty-five out of 60 (58%) were large breeds and 22/60 (37%) were giant breeds. Mean and median age was 6.6 and 7 years respectively (range, 0.75-11 years). Forty of the 60 dogs (67%) had concurrent osseous and disc-associated spinal cord compression in the same location. This was considered the main compression site in 32/40 (80%) dogs. Dogs with osseous- and disc-associated compressions at the same site were more likely to have a higher neurologic grade (P = .04). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE A substantial percentage of dogs with CSM present with concomitant IVD protrusion and osseous proliferations, most at the same site. Characterizing this combined form is important in the management of dogs with CSM because it could affect treatment choices.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ronaldo Casimiro da Costa
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary MedicineThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
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Chang YP, Huang WH, Lua WZ, Wong W, Liu IH, Liu CH. Outcomes in Dogs with Multiple Sites of Cervical Intervertebral Disc Disease Treated with Single Ventral Slot Decompression. Vet Sci 2023; 10:377. [PMID: 37368763 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10060377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In dogs with acute myelopathy but showing multiple sites of spinal compression from intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) on imaging, one approach is surgical decompression of the single acute disc extrusion while ignoring other previously extruded or protruded discs. However, little is known regarding the outcomes of this approach. This study described the outcomes and investigated prognostic factors in 40 dogs with multiple sites of cervical disc extrusion or protrusion on MRI who underwent ventral slot decompression for the single acute disc. The overall recovery rate was 97.5%. The median recovery time was seven days. The number of affected discs (including disc extrusion and protrusion) and the presence and number of the affected discs causing severe spinal compression did not influence the 30-day outcome. Compared with 23 dogs with single disc extrusion treated surgically, the recovery time and outcomes were similar between the two groups. The total number of affected discs was not associated with recovery time or outcomes. In conclusion, if an acute disc could be identified, ventral slot decompression targeting the single acute disc is a viable management approach for dogs with an acute presentation but diagnosed with multiple sites of spinal cord compression from IVDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Pei Chang
- Department and Graduate Institute of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106319, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Veterinary Clinical Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106319, Taiwan
- National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106328, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Hsiang Huang
- Graduate Institute of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106319, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Zhen Lua
- Department and Graduate Institute of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106319, Taiwan
| | - Wenyi Wong
- Graduate Institute of Veterinary Clinical Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106319, Taiwan
| | - I-Hsuan Liu
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106073, Taiwan
- Research Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106038, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Hsuan Liu
- Department and Graduate Institute of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106319, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106319, Taiwan
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Lee N, Seo J, Yoon J. Morphometric Magnetic Resonance Imaging Evaluation of Cervical Spinal Canal and Cord in Normal Small-Breed Dogs. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:732953. [PMID: 34660768 PMCID: PMC8511692 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.732953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cervical spinal disease is one of the most common neurological disorders in small-breed dogs. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a common test for dogs with cervical spinal diseases. However, there is no information on cervical spinal canal and cord using MRI in normal small-breed dogs. Therefore, this study aimed to perform analyses to establish morphologic MRI reference ranges of the cervical spinal canal and cord in normal small-breed dogs. Cervical MRI examinations were taken in 20 client-owned small dogs. The height, width, and cross-sectional area (CSA) of the spinal canal and cord were measured on sagittal and transverse T2-weighted images at each vertebral body level and each intervertebral disk level from C1-C2 to C7 (a total of 12 levels). The height ratio, the width ratio, and the CSA ratio were calculated. The height, width, and CSA of the spinal canal and cord increased as the dog's weight increased (p < 0.01), except for that at C1-C2. However, there was no correlation between the body weight and height ratio and the width ratio and CSA ratio at all levels, except for that at C1-C2. Also, there was a negative correlation between the body weight and CSA ratio at C1-C2. There were no statistical differences for the CSA of the spinal canal, the CSA of the spinal cord, and the CSA ratio between nearby levels, except for that at C1-C2. There was no statistical difference between measurements at each same level of the sagittal and transverse images. The results of this study may provide basic and morphometric information for diagnosing and researching cervical spinal diseases in small-breed dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namsoon Lee
- Time Animal Medical Center, Daejeon, South Korea.,College of Veterinary Medicine and the Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | | | - Junghee Yoon
- College of Veterinary Medicine and the Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
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Poad L, Smith M, De Decker S. Comparing the clinical presentation and outcomes of dogs receiving medical or surgical treatment for osseous-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy. Vet Rec 2021; 190:e831. [PMID: 34409617 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to compare the clinical presentation, short and long term outcomes of dogs treated surgically or medically for Osseous associated cervical spondylomyelopathy. METHODS Information collected retrospectively from medical records included signalment, neurological status and treatment type. Surgical treatment consisted of dorsal laminectomy. Medical treatment involved restricted exercise and medication. Improvement or deterioration in neurological status was determined at discharge, re-examination 4-8 weeks post-treatment and by telephone interview with the referring veterinary surgeon or owner at the time of the study, which ranged from 8-54 months following the discharge (median, 16 months). RESULTS Twenty-four dogs were treated surgically and 30 medically. Neurological grade at clinical presentation was significantly higher in surgically treated dogs (p = 0.004). Transient early postoperative neurological deterioration occurred in 73.1% of surgically treated dogs. For medical cases, long term improvement was seen in 15% of cases, remained static in 40% and deterioration in 45%. Surgical treatment resulted in long term improvement in 67% of cases, remained static in 29% and deterioration in 4% of cases. CONCLUSION This study suggests that surgery is a favourable treatment option, however, requires intensive post-operative care. Medical treatment was associated with a guarded prognosis but could be a viable treatment option for selected dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Poad
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, University of London Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Megan Smith
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, University of London Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Steven De Decker
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, University of London Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
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Bonelli MDA, da Costa LBDSBC, da Costa RC. Association of neurologic signs with high-field MRI findings in 100 dogs with osseous-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy. Vet Radiol Ultrasound 2021; 62:678-686. [PMID: 34370359 DOI: 10.1111/vru.13014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Although osseous-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy (OA-CSM) findings have been well described using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), there are no large-scale published studies on the associations between dog size, age, high-field MRI and neurologic findings. Using a retrospective, observational study design, we aimed to investigate an association between neurologic and high-field MRI characteristics in OA-CSM. Records were reviewed for dogs diagnosed with OA-CSM using high-field MRI. One-hundred dogs were included: 73/100 (73%) were giant breeds, 27/100 (27%) large breeds. Mean and median ages were, respectively, 3.1 and 2 years (0.3-9.75 years), with 2.6 and 2 years for giant-breed; and 4.4 and 4 years for large-breed dogs. The majority of dogs were male (75%) with chronic presentation (89%), more than one site of spinal cord compression (78%) and foraminal stenosis (91%). Dogs with multiples sites of spinal cord compression were more likely to have severe spinal cord compression (p < 0.001), severe foraminal stenosis (p < 0.001) and ligamentum flavum/soft tissue proliferation (p = 0.03) than those with a single compressive site. There was a weak correlation between neurologic grade and severity of spinal cord compression (r = 0.27; p = 0.007), number of affected sites (r = 0.24; p = 0.0183) and spinal cord T2W hyperintensity (r = 0.24; p = 0.0152). Intervertebral disc degeneration was seen in 80% of dogs. Age did not appear to have a prominent role in the manifestation of OA-CSM. This study showed that OA-CSM affects a sizeable proportion of young large-breed, in addition to giant-breed dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marília de Albuquerque Bonelli
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | | | - Ronaldo Casimiro da Costa
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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Ariete V, Barnert N, Gómez M, Mieres M, Pérez B, Gutierrez JC. Morphometrical Study of the Lumbar Segment of the Internal Vertebral Venous Plexus in Dogs: A Contrast CT-Based Study. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061502. [PMID: 34067340 PMCID: PMC8224572 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The internal vertebral venous plexus (IVVP) is a valveless venous network running inside the vertebral canal. The objective of this study was to morphometrically describe the IVVP, dural sac, epidural space and vertebral canal of the lumbar segment in dogs with enhanced computerized tomography. Six clinically healthy adult dogs were used for the study. Dorsal reconstructed computed tomography (CT) images showed a continuous rhomboidal morphological pattern for the IVVP. The dural sac was observed as an isodense structure with a rounded shape throughout the vertebral canal. The average percentage area occupied by the IVVP between L1 and L7 vertebrae ranged between 6.3% and 8.9% of the area of the vertebral canal, and the dural sac ranged between 13.8% and 72.2% of the vertebral canal. The epidural space accounted between 27.08% and 86.2% of the lumbar vertebral canal. CT venography is a safe technique that allows adequate visualization and evaluation of the lumbar IVVP and adjacent structures in dogs. Abstract The internal vertebral venous plexus (IVVP) is a thin-walled, valveless venous network that is located inside the vertebral canal, communicating with the cerebral venous sinuses. The objective of this study was to perform a morphometric analysis of the IVVP, dural sac, epidural space and vertebral canal between the L1 and L7 vertebrae with contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT). Six clinically healthy adult dogs weighing between 12 kg to 28 kg were used in the study. The CT venographic protocol consisted of a manual injection of 880 mgI/kg of contrast agent (587 mgI/kg in a bolus and 293 mgI/mL by continuous infusion). In all CT images, the dimensions of the IVVP, dural sac, and vertebral canal were collected. Dorsal reconstruction CT images showed a continuous rhomboidal morphological pattern for the IVVP. The dural sac was observed as a rounded isodense structure throughout the vertebral canal. The average area of the IVVP ranged from 0.61 to 0.74 mm2 between L1 and L7 vertebrae (6.3–8.9% of the vertebral canal), and the area of the dural sac was between 1.22 and 7.42 mm2 (13.8–72.2% of the vertebral canal). The area of the epidural space between L1 and L7 ranged from 2.85 to 7.78 mm2 (27.8–86.2% of the vertebral canal). This CT venography protocol is a safe method that allows adequate visualization and morphometric evaluation of the IVVP and adjacent structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Ariete
- Institute of Pharmacology and Morphophysiology, Austral University of Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile; (V.A.); (N.B.); (B.P.)
| | - Natalia Barnert
- Institute of Pharmacology and Morphophysiology, Austral University of Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile; (V.A.); (N.B.); (B.P.)
| | - Marcelo Gómez
- Institute of Pharmacology and Morphophysiology, Austral University of Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile; (V.A.); (N.B.); (B.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +56-632221216 or +56-984437732
| | - Marcelo Mieres
- Institute of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Austral University of Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile;
| | - Bárbara Pérez
- Institute of Pharmacology and Morphophysiology, Austral University of Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile; (V.A.); (N.B.); (B.P.)
| | - Juan Claudio Gutierrez
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA;
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Bonelli MDA, da Costa LBDSBC, da Costa RC. Magnetic resonance imaging and neurological findings in dogs with disc-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy: a case series. BMC Vet Res 2021; 17:145. [PMID: 33827551 PMCID: PMC8025371 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-021-02846-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Canine cervical spondylomyelopathy can be separated into osseous and disc-associated (DA-CSM) forms. Our aim was to describe the magnetic resonance imaging (using a high-field scanner) and neurological findings in dogs with DA-CSM and investigate a relationship between these findings. Results Sixty-three dogs were included: 60/63 (95 %) were large breeds, with Doberman Pinschers and males over-represented (70 %). Mean and median age at the time of diagnosis was 7.25 and 7.2 years (range 0.41–12 years). Chronic signs were noted in 52/63 (83 %) dogs, with proprioceptive ataxia the most common. Main site of spinal cord compression was commonly C6-7 or C5-6. Thirty-six (57 %) dogs had various sites of spinal cord compression. Most dogs younger than 6 years of age had a single affected site. Foraminal stenosis was present in 51/63 dogs (81 %). T2-weighted hyperintensity was present in 40/63 dogs (63 %). 88 % of the articular processes showed degenerative changes, which correlated strongly with intervertebral disc degeneration. Ligamentum flavum hypertrophy was seen in 38 % of dogs. No correlation was observed between neurologic signs and number of affected sites. A moderate positive correlation was observed between severity of spinal cord compression and neurologic grade (r 0.48; p < 0.001). Conclusions DA-CSM was predominantly observed in older, male Dobermans, with lesions located in the caudal cervical vertebral region. It was also seen in dogs 3 years of age or even younger (8 %). Single compressive lesions were more common in dogs younger than 6 years of age. Many dogs had concomitant changes (e.g.: ligamentum flavum hypertrophy and foraminal stenosis). Most dogs with ligamentum flavum hypertrophy were 6 years or older. A positive correlation was observed between severity of spinal cord compression and neurologic grade, but multilevel compression was not associated with more severe neurologic signs. A very high percentage of dogs had articular process degenerative changes. Possible biomechanical or genetic relationships between degenerative changes in articular processes, ligamentum flavum, and intervertebral discs warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marília de Albuquerque Bonelli
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, 601 Vernon Tharp St, OH, 43210, Columbus, USA
| | | | - Ronaldo Casimiro da Costa
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, 601 Vernon Tharp St, OH, 43210, Columbus, USA.
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Lee NN, Kramer JS, Stoker AM, Bozynski CC, Cook CR, Stannard JT, Choma TJ, Cook JL. Canine models of spine disorders. JOR Spine 2020; 3:e1109. [PMID: 33392448 PMCID: PMC7770205 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Neck and low back pain are common among the adult human population and impose large social and economic burdens on health care and quality of life. Spine-related disorders are also significant health concerns for canine companions with etiopathogeneses, clinical presentations, and diagnostic and therapeutic options that are very similar to their human counterparts. Historically, induced and spontaneous pathology in laboratory rodents, dogs, sheep, goats, pigs, and nonhuman primates have been used for study of human spine disorders. While each of these can serve as useful preclinical models, they all have inherent limitations. Spontaneously occurring spine disorders in dogs provide highly translatable data that overcome many of the limitations of other models and have the added benefit of contributing to veterinary healthcare as well. For this scoping review, peer-reviewed manuscripts were selected from PubMed and Google Scholar searches using keywords: "intervertebral disc," "intervertebral disc degeneration," "biomarkers," "histopathology," "canine," and "mechanism." Additional keywords such as "injury," "induced model," and "nucleus degeneration" were used to further narrow inclusion. The objectives of this review were to (a) outline similarities in key features of spine disorders between dogs and humans; (b) describe relevant canine models; and (c) highlight the applicability of these models for advancing translational research and clinical application for mechanisms of disease, diagnosis, prognosis, prevention, and treatment, with a focus on intervertebral disc degeneration. Best current evidence suggests that dogs share important anatomical, physiological, histological, and molecular components of spinal disorders in humans, such that induced and spontaneous canine models can be very effective for translational research. Taken together, the peer-reviewed literature supports numerous advantages for use of canine models for study of disorders of the spine when the potential limitations and challenges are addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi N. Lee
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
- Thompson Laboratory for Regenerative OrthopaedicsUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
- Comparative Medicine ProgramUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Jacob S. Kramer
- Thompson Laboratory for Regenerative OrthopaedicsUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Aaron M. Stoker
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
- Thompson Laboratory for Regenerative OrthopaedicsUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Chantelle C. Bozynski
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
- Thompson Laboratory for Regenerative OrthopaedicsUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Cristi R. Cook
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
- Thompson Laboratory for Regenerative OrthopaedicsUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - James T. Stannard
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
- Thompson Laboratory for Regenerative OrthopaedicsUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Theodore J. Choma
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
- Thompson Laboratory for Regenerative OrthopaedicsUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - James L. Cook
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
- Thompson Laboratory for Regenerative OrthopaedicsUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
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da Costa RC, De Decker S, Lewis MJ, Volk H. Diagnostic Imaging in Intervertebral Disc Disease. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:588338. [PMID: 33195623 PMCID: PMC7642913 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.588338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Imaging is integral in the diagnosis of canine intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) and in differentiating subtypes of intervertebral disc herniation (IVDH). These include intervertebral disc extrusion (IVDE), intervertebral disc protrusion (IVDP) and more recently recognized forms such as acute non-compressive nucleus pulposus extrusion (ANNPE), hydrated nucleus pulposus extrusion (HNPE), and intradural/intramedullary intervertebral disc extrusion (IIVDE). Many imaging techniques have been described in dogs with roles for survey radiographs, myelography, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Given how common IVDH is in dogs, a thorough understanding of the indications and limitations for each imaging modality to aid in diagnosis, treatment planning and prognosis is essential to successful case management. While radiographs can provide useful information, especially for identifying intervertebral disc degeneration or calcification, there are notable limitations. Myelography addresses some of the constraints of survey radiographs but has largely been supplanted by cross-sectional imaging. Computed tomography with or without myelography and MRI is currently utilized most widely and have become the focus of most contemporary studies on this subject. Novel advanced imaging applications are being explored in dogs but are not yet routinely performed in clinical patients. The following review will provide a comprehensive overview on common imaging modalities reported to aid in the diagnosis of IVDH including IVDE, IVDP, ANNPE, HNPE, and IIVDE. The review focuses primarily on canine IVDH due to its frequency and vast literature as opposed to feline IVDH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronaldo C da Costa
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Steven De Decker
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Services, Royal Veterinary College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Melissa J Lewis
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Holger Volk
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hanover, Hanover, Germany
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Bonelli MDA, da Costa RC. Neurologic and magnetic resonance imaging features of German Shepherd Dogs with cervical spondylomyelopathy: 10 cases (2006-2018). J Am Vet Med Assoc 2020; 255:1263-1269. [PMID: 31730438 DOI: 10.2460/javma.255.11.1263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the neurologic signs and MRI findings for German Shepherd Dogs (GSDs) with cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM). ANIMALS 10 GSDs with confirmed CSM. PROCEDURES Medical records from January 2006 through July 2018 were reviewed to identify dogs with CSM. For each CSM-affected dog, information regarding age, duration of clinical signs, presence of neurologic signs, and treatments administered were obtained; the main site and cause of spinal cord compression and other vertebral and spinal cord changes were identified on MRI images. RESULTS Data for 9 male and 1 female (mean age, 6.2 years) GSDs with CSM were assessed. Dogs were classified as having chronic (n = 9) or acute (1) CSM. Nine dogs had ataxia; 1 dog had only signs of cervical hyperesthesia. Neurologic examination findings localized the lesion to the cervical portion of the vertebral column in each dog. The main spinal cord compression site was at the C6-7 (n = 5), C5-6 (4), or C4-5 (1) intervertebral spaces; osseous proliferation of the articular processes was the sole or a contributory cause of these compressions for 6 of the 10 dogs. Eight dogs also had dorsal compression of the spinal cord as the result of ligamenta flava hypertrophy. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE The 10 GSDs of the present retrospective case series had CSM that was often characterized by osseous changes and a ligamentous component and were older than dogs of other breeds (eg, Great Dane and Mastiff) with osseous-associated CSM described in previous reports. Cervical spondylomyelopathy should be a differential diagnosis for GSDs with ataxia, paresis, or signs of cervical hyperesthesia.
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King JC, Corfield GS, Mouatt JG, Kan CY, Moses PA. Surgical management and long-term outcome of dogs with cervical spondylomyelopathy with an anchored intervertebral titanium device. Aust Vet J 2020; 98:156-163. [PMID: 32037520 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the short- and long-term outcome of an anchored intervertebral titanium device (C-LOX) for the treatment of 10 dogs with disc-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy (DACSM) and 1 dog with osseous-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy. DESIGN Retrospective case series. METHODS Dogs were included if they were diagnosed with either DACSM or osseous-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy via myelography with or without advanced imaging and underwent surgical distraction and stabilisation of the affected intervertebral disc with a C-LOX implant. Assessment included short-term neurological outcome, radiography immediately and 6 weeks' postsurgery, owner questionnaire and veterinary clinical assessment. RESULTS The mean follow-up time was 12 months. Improvement in neurological status was noted in 10 of 11 dogs. Screw loosening or subsidence occurred in five dogs. Revision surgery was performed in two dogs due to implant fracture (n = 1) and recurrence of spinal cord compression due to endplate subsidence around the implant (n = 1). Adjacent segment disease occurred in three dogs (30%) with DACSM at a mean of 11 months postsurgery. CONCLUSION The use of the C-LOX implant for dogs with cervical spondylomyelopathy resulted in a high rate of initial neurological improvement; however, there is a moderate incidence of minor and major complications that is comparable to previously described distraction-stabilisation techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C King
- Veterinary Specialist Services - Small Animal Surgery Department, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - G S Corfield
- Veterinary Specialist Services - Small Animal Surgery Department, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - J G Mouatt
- Veterinary Specialist Services - Small Animal Surgery Department, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - C Y Kan
- Veterinary Specialist Services - Small Animal Surgery Department, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - P A Moses
- Veterinary Specialist Services - Small Animal Surgery Department, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
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12
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Vansteenkiste DP, Fenger JM, Fadda P, Martin‐Vaquero P, da Costa RC. MicroRNA expression in the cerebrospinal fluid of dogs with and without cervical spondylomyelopathy. J Vet Intern Med 2019; 33:2685-2692. [PMID: 31639228 PMCID: PMC6872614 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Osseous-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy (OA-CSM) is a common condition of the cervical vertebral column that affects giant dog breeds. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small RNAs that regulate gene expression, and recent data suggest that circulating miRNAs present in biological fluids may serve as potential biomarkers for disease. The miRNA profiles of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from healthy dogs and dogs clinically affected by OA-CSM have not been described. OBJECTIVE To characterize the expression levels of miRNAs present in the CSF of normal Great Danes and identify differentially expressed miRNAs in the CSF of Great Danes clinically affected with OA-CSM. ANIMALS Client-owned dogs: 12 control, 12 OA-CSM affected. METHODS Cerebrospinal fluid samples were collected prospectively. MicroRNA expression was evaluated using the NanoString nCounter platform and quantitative real-time PCR. RESULTS We identified 8 miRNAs with significant differential expression. MiR-299-5p and miR-765 had increased expression levels in the CSF of OA-CSM-affected dogs, whereas miR-494, miR-612, miR-302-d, miR-4531, miR-4455, and miR-6721-5p had decreased expression levels in OA-CSM affected dogs compared to clinically normal dogs. Quantitative real-time PCR was performed to validate the expression levels of 2 miRNAs (miR-494 and miR-612), and we found a 1.5-fold increase in miR-494 expression and a 1.2-fold decrease in miR-612 in the CSF of the OA-CSM affected group (P = .41 and .89, respectively). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE Data generated from our study represent an initial characterization of the miRNA profile of normal canine CSF and suggest that a distinct CSF miRNA expression profile is associated with OA-CSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniella P. Vansteenkiste
- Department of Veterinary Clinical SciencesThe Ohio State University, College of Veterinary MedicineColumbusOhio
| | - Joelle M. Fenger
- Department of Veterinary Clinical SciencesThe Ohio State University, College of Veterinary MedicineColumbusOhio
| | - Paolo Fadda
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Genomics Shared ResourceThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhio
| | | | - Ronaldo C. da Costa
- Department of Veterinary Clinical SciencesThe Ohio State University, College of Veterinary MedicineColumbusOhio
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de Albuquerque Bonelli M, da Costa RC. Clinical and magnetic resonance imaging characterization of cervical spondylomyelopathy in juvenile dogs. J Vet Intern Med 2019; 33:2160-2166. [PMID: 31469206 PMCID: PMC6766523 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM) occurs because of compression of the cervical spinal cord, nerve roots, or both, usually affecting young adult to older large and giant breed dogs. Juvenile dogs are affected infrequently. Objective To describe clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in juvenile dogs (≤ 12 months) with cervical spondylomyelopathy. Animals Twenty CSM‐affected juvenile dogs. Methods Medical and imaging records for juvenile dogs with CSM were reviewed. History and neurologic examination findings were obtained, including follow‐up data. The MRI studies were reviewed for cause and site of spinal cord compression, intervertebral disk protrusion or degeneration, articular process degenerative changes, intervertebral foraminal stenosis, and spinal cord signal changes. Results Mean (median) age at the time of diagnosis was 9.4 (10) months. There were 16 giant breed dogs. Eighteen dogs had a chronic presentation, 18/20 had proprioceptive ataxia, and 9/20 had cervical pain. On MRI, the principal spinal cord compression occurred at C5‐C6, C6‐C7, or both in most dogs; 12/20 dogs had ≥2 sites of spinal cord compression. The cause of compression was articular process proliferation in 8/20 dogs and disk protrusion in 2/20 dogs. Intervertebral disk degeneration was seen in 9/20 dogs. Follow‐up was obtained for 12/20 dogs: 10/12 were managed medically and 2/12 surgically. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Cervical spondylomyelopathy in juvenile dogs was characterized mostly by osseous‐associated spinal cord compression and multiple compressive sites. Almost half of the dogs had intervertebral disk degeneration. Intervertebral disk protrusion was seen in both giant and large breed dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marília de Albuquerque Bonelli
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, 601 Vernon Tharp St., Columbus, Ohio
| | - Ronaldo C da Costa
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, 601 Vernon Tharp St., Columbus, Ohio
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Vansteenkiste D, Martin-Vaquero P, Bonelli M, da Costa LB, da Costa RC. Long-term computed tomography follow-up in great Danes with or without signs of osseous- associated cervical Spondylomyelopathy. BMC Vet Res 2019; 15:90. [PMID: 30866937 PMCID: PMC6416867 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-019-1835-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Osseous- associated cervical spondylomyelopathy (OA-CSM) has a high prevalence in Great Danes. In order to understand the progression of osseous changes, we aimed to perform a long-term computed tomographic (CT) follow-up study of Great Dane dogs with and without OA-CSM. Canine CSM is comparable to a common neurologic disease often diagnosed in older people termed cervical spondylotic myelopathy or degenerative cervical myelopathy, which is progressive in nature. The natural history of cervical spondylotic myelopathy in people has been well described, whereas there is scarce information on the natural history of canine OA-CSM. Our first goal was to evaluate if follow-up CT studies showed any changes compared to initial CT studies in Great Dane dogs with a diagnosis of OA-CSM. Our second goal was to establish whether clinically normal Great Danes went on to develop any vertebral changes or clinical signs consistent with OA-CSM. We enrolled Great Danes diagnosed with OA-CSM and clinically normal Great Danes who had previously participated in a prospective study. All dogs had clinical and CT follow-up evaluations. Results Twelve Great Dane dogs were investigated: six OA-CSM affected and six clinically normal dogs. The median time between CT studies was 28 months (OA-CSM dogs) and 25 months (normal dogs). On follow-up CT, two OA-CSM-affected dogs developed new sites of stenosis, and two clinically normal dogs developed new sites of stenosis (one each). Disc spaces most commonly affected were C4-C5, C5-C6 and C6-C7. New sites of foraminal stenosis were noted in two of the CSM-affected and four of the clinically normal dogs. Morphometric evaluation showed no statistically significant differences between the initial and follow-up CT studies in the OA-CSM affected or normal groups. Conclusion Our long-term CT follow-up study documented progression of vertebral canal stenosis in four out of twelve dogs. The majority of dogs did not develop new sites of stenosis or show progression of vertebral lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniella Vansteenkiste
- College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, 601 Vernon L. Tharp St, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | - Marília Bonelli
- College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, 601 Vernon L. Tharp St, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Luciana B da Costa
- College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, 601 Vernon L. Tharp St, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ronaldo C da Costa
- College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, 601 Vernon L. Tharp St, Columbus, OH, USA.
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Tuan J, Solano MA, Fitzpatrick N. Ventral distraction-stabilization in 5 continuous sites for the treatment of cervical spondylomyelopathy in a Great Dane. Vet Surg 2019; 48:607-614. [PMID: 30828843 DOI: 10.1111/vsu.13189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2018] [Revised: 10/01/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To report the combined use of novel and commercially available implants for ventral distraction-stabilization of 5 continuous compressive sites in a Great Dane with cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM). STUDY DESIGN Case report. ANIMALS One 4-year-old male Great Dane weighing 78 kg. METHODS A tetraparetic 4-year-old Great Dane with osseous-associated CSM (OA-CSM) with 5 sites of dorsolateral compression was presented for surgical intervention. Custom designed Fitz intervertebral traction screws (FITS) and a commercially available polyaxial spinal system were used for ventral distraction-stabilization of all lesions. Multiple neurological reevaluations were performed, with the final evaluation at 27 months postoperatively. Preoperative, immediate-postoperative, and 27 month-postoperative computed tomography (CT) images were retrospectively reviewed to compare the vertebral canal dimensions at the affected sites. RESULTS Multilevel distraction-stabilization technique resulted in improvement of the dog's neurological function by 10 days postoperatively. The vertebral canal measurements were revealed to have improved in over half of the measured variables when the 27-month-postoperative images were compared with the preoperative CT images. Increased vertebral canal dimensions were observed immediately after surgery, and some of these measurements continued to improve by 27 months postoperatively. CONCLUSION Ventral distraction-stabilization technique with custom-designed FITS and a polyaxial spinal system resulted in both clinical improvement and objective improvement in spinal canal measurements in an OA-CSM-affected Great Dane. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE An indirect decompression technique can eliminate dynamic movements and result in regression of vertebral canal bony proliferation in dogs with OA-CSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayson Tuan
- Fitzpatrick Referrals, Eashing, Godalming, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Miguel A Solano
- Fitzpatrick Referrals, Eashing, Godalming, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Noel Fitzpatrick
- Fitzpatrick Referrals, Eashing, Godalming, Surrey, United Kingdom
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Bonelli MDA, Shah A, Goel V, Costa FS, da Costa RC. Development of a finite element model of the ligamentous cervical vertebral column of a Great Dane. Res Vet Sci 2018; 118:97-100. [PMID: 29421491 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2018.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2017] [Revised: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM), also known as wobbler syndrome, affects mainly large and giant-breed dogs, causing compression of the cervical spinal cord and/or nerve roots. Structural and dynamic components seem to play a role in the development of CSM; however, pathogenesis is not yet fully understood. Finite element models have been used for years in human medicine to study the dynamic behavior of structures, but it has been mostly overlooked in veterinary studies. To our knowledge, no specific ligamentous spine models have been developed to investigate naturally occurring canine myelopathies and possible surgical treatments. The goal of this study was to develop a finite element model (FEM) of the C2-C7 segment of the ligamentous cervical vertebral column of a neurologically normal Great Dane without imaging changes. The FEM of the intact C2-C7 cervical vertebral column had a total of 188,906 elements (175,715 tetra elements and 12,740 hexa elements). The range of motion (in degrees) for the FEM subjected to a moment of 2Nm was approximately 27.94 in flexion, 25.86 in extension, 24.14 in left lateral bending, 25.27 in right lateral bending, 17.44 in left axial rotation, and 16.72 in right axial rotation. We constructed a ligamentous FEM of the C2-C7 vertebral column of a Great Dane dog, which can serve as a platform to be modified and adapted for studies related to biomechanics of the cervical vertebral column and to further improve studies on osseous-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marília de Albuquerque Bonelli
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, 601 Vernon Tharp St, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, R. Dom Manoel de Medeiros s/n, Recife, PE 52171-900, Brazil
| | - Anoli Shah
- Engineering Center for Orthopaedic Research Excellence (E-CORE), Departments of Bioengineering and Surgery, College of Engineering and Medicine, University of Toledo, 2801 West Bancroft St., Toledo, OH 43606, USA.
| | - Vijay Goel
- Engineering Center for Orthopaedic Research Excellence (E-CORE), Departments of Bioengineering and Surgery, College of Engineering and Medicine, University of Toledo, 2801 West Bancroft St., Toledo, OH 43606, USA.
| | - Fabiano Séllos Costa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, R. Dom Manoel de Medeiros s/n, Recife, PE 52171-900, Brazil
| | - Ronaldo Casimiro da Costa
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, 601 Vernon Tharp St, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
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de A Bonelli M, da Costa RC. Comparison of the percentage of the C3-C7 vertebral canal occupied by the spinal cord in small-breed dogs with that in Doberman Pinschers and Great Danes with and without cervical spondylomyelopathy. Am J Vet Res 2017; 79:83-89. [PMID: 29287165 DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.79.1.83] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the percentage of the C3-C7 vertebral canal occupied by the spinal cord in small-breed dogs with that in Doberman Pinschers and Great Danes with and without cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM). ANIMALS 30 small-breed dogs (body weight, < 15 kg), 15 clinically normal Doberman Pinschers, 15 Doberman Pinschers with CSM, 15 clinically normal Great Danes, and 15 Great Danes with CSM. PROCEDURES In a retrospective study, sagittal and transverse T2-weighted MRI images of the cervical (C3 to C7) vertebral column obtained from dogs that met study criteria and were free of extensive abnormalities that could affect the spinal cord diameter between January 2005 and February 2015 were reviewed. The area and height of the vertebral column and spinal cord were measured at the cranial and caudal aspect of each vertebra from C3 to C7, and the percentage of the vertebral canal occupied by the spinal cord at each location was calculated and compared among groups of dogs. RESULTS Mean percentage of the vertebral canal occupied by the spinal cord was greatest for small-breed dogs and lowest for Great Danes, but did not differ between Doberman Pinschers and small-breed dogs at approximately half of the locations evaluated or between Doberman Pinschers with and without CSM or between Great Danes with and without CSM. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results suggested that the percentage of the vertebral canal occupied by the spinal cord, although expected to increase with vertebral canal stenosis, may not have a primary role in the pathogenesis of CSM.
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Provencher M, Habing A, Moore SA, Cook L, Phillips G, da Costa RC. Evaluation of osseous-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy in dogs using kinematic magnetic resonance imaging. Vet Radiol Ultrasound 2017; 58:411-421. [DOI: 10.1111/vru.12495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Revised: 12/22/2016] [Accepted: 12/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Michele Provencher
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences; Ohio State University; Columbus OH 43210
| | - Amy Habing
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences; Ohio State University; Columbus OH 43210
| | - Sarah A. Moore
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences; Ohio State University; Columbus OH 43210
| | - Laurie Cook
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences; Ohio State University; Columbus OH 43210
| | - Gary Phillips
- Center for Biostatistics; Ohio State University; Columbus OH 43210
| | - Ronaldo C. da Costa
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences; Ohio State University; Columbus OH 43210
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Bonelli MDA, da Costa RC, Martin-Vaquero P, Lima CGD. Comparison of angle, shape, and position of articular processes in Dobermans and Great Danes with and without cervical spondylomyelopathy. BMC Vet Res 2017; 13:77. [PMID: 28340590 PMCID: PMC5366139 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-017-0997-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM), also known as wobbler syndrome, affects mainly large and giant-breed dogs, causing compression of the cervical spinal cord and/or nerve roots. Structural and dynamic components seem to play a role in the development of CSM; however, pathogenesis is not yet fully understood. Physiologic and pathologic movements of the cervical spine depend on the morphology and morphometry of articular processes, as well as on intervertebral discs and vertebral column ligaments. Moreover, the characteristics of the articular processes affect motion and stability of the vertebral column. The goal of this study was to investigate the angle, shape, and position of the articular surfaces within the articular processes and compare them between Doberman Pinschers and Great Danes with and without cervical spondylomyelopathy. Results Magnetic resonance images were obtained for 60 dogs: 15 clinically normal Dobermans (Dob-N), 15 CSM-affected Dobermans (Dob-CSM), 15 clinically normal Great Danes (GD-N), and 15 CSM-affected Great Danes (GD-CSM). Angle, shape, and position (lateral distance) of the articular surfaces from the articular processes were analyzed from C2–3 to C7-T1. Results indicate that the mean angle was different between Dob-CSM and GD-CSM at C4–5, C5–6, and C6–7, and between GD-N and GD-CSM at C6–7. There were differences between Dob-N and GD-N, and between Dob-CSM and GD-CSM for the lateral distance at most locations, except C2–3. Compared with Great Danes, Dobermans generally had a greater proportion of concave caudal surfaces at C4–5, C5–6, and C6–7. Concave articular surfaces have been associated with greater axial rotation. This may explain the high proportion of disc-associated CSM in Dobermans compared to Great Danes. The differences between breeds suggest they may have different motion patterns in the caudal cervical vertebral column. Conclusions Considering that no differences in angle, shape, or position of the articular surfaces within the articular processes were found between normal and CSM-affected dogs, their relevance appears to have a secondary role in the pathogenesis of CSM. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12917-017-0997-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marília de Albuquerque Bonelli
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, 601 Vernon Tharp St., Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, R. Dom Manoel de Medeiros s/n, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil
| | - Ronaldo Casimiro da Costa
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, 601 Vernon Tharp St., Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
| | - Paula Martin-Vaquero
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, 601 Vernon Tharp St., Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.,Ogilvy Healthworld, Avda. de Burgos 21, C. P. 28036, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carolina Gonçalves Dias Lima
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, 601 Vernon Tharp St., Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
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Vernon JC, Durand A, Guevar J, José-López R, Hammond G, Stalin C, Gutierrez-Quintana R. Vertebral venous system abnormalities identified with magnetic resonance imaging in sighthounds. Vet Radiol Ultrasound 2017; 58:399-410. [PMID: 28337816 DOI: 10.1111/vru.12492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2016] [Revised: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In humans, abnormalities of the vertebral venous system are considered rare but significant causes of radiculopathy and myelopathy. Published information on abnormalities of the canine vertebral venous system is currently lacking. Aims of this retrospective descriptive study were to characterize magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) abnormalities of the vertebral venous system in a population of sighthounds, report prevalence of vertebral venous system abnormalities within that population and explore possible clinical significance. Our hospital database was searched over the period of 2002-2013 for sighthounds with MRI studies of the vertebral column. Medical records and MRI studies for included dogs were retrieved and findings were recorded by a single observer. A total of 92 sighthounds were sampled. Eleven cases (prevalence 12%) showed abnormal enlargement of the internal vertebral venous plexus (10/11 unilaterally, 1/11 bilaterally), external vertebral venous plexus (7/11 cases unilaterally), and/or intervertebral veins (8/11 unilaterally, 2/11 bilaterally, and 1/11 unilaterally and bilaterally at different sites). The majority of the abnormalities were right sided and the most common location for abnormalities was C6/7. Of the 11 cases, nine did not have a definitive diagnosis. Seven of those nine cases had an abnormality in a neuroanatomical localization that could wholly or partly explain the clinical signs. Findings indicated that, while the prevalence of vertebral venous system abnormalities was low in this sample of sighthounds, the majority of dogs with these abnormalities had clinical signs that matched the location of the abnormalities. Further prospective research is needed to investigate potential underlying aetiologies for vertebral venous system abnormalities in dogs and clarify their clinical significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- John C Vernon
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Alexane Durand
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Julien Guevar
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Roberto José-López
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Gawain Hammond
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Catherine Stalin
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Rodrigo Gutierrez-Quintana
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
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Provencher M, Habing A, Moore SA, Cook L, Phillips G, da Costa RC. Kinematic Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Evaluation of Disc-Associated Cervical Spondylomyelopathy in Doberman Pinschers. J Vet Intern Med 2016; 30:1121-8. [PMID: 27239003 PMCID: PMC5089627 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.13981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2015] [Revised: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 05/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The dynamic component of disc-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy (DA-CSM) currently is evaluated using traction magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which does not assess changes in flexion and extension of the cervical vertebral column. In humans with cervical spondylotic myelopathy, kinematic MRI is used to identify dynamic compressions. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES To evaluate the feasibility and utility of kMRI in Doberman Pinschers with DA-CSM using a novel positioning device. We hypothesized that kMRI would identify compressive lesions not observed with neutral positioning and change the dimensions of the spinal cord and cervical vertebral canal. ANIMALS Nine client-owned Doberman Pinschers with DA-CSM. METHODS Prospective study. After standard MR imaging of the cervical spine confirmed DA-CSM, dogs were placed on a positioning device to allow imaging in flexion and extension. Morphologic and morphometric assessments were compared between neutral, flexion, and extension images. RESULTS Flexion was associated with improvement or resolution of spinal cord compression in 4/9 patients, whereas extension caused worsening of compressions in 6/9 patients. Extension identified 6 new compressive lesions and was significantly associated with dorsal and ventral compression at C5-C6 (P = .021) and C6-C7 (P = .031). A significant decrease in spinal cord height occurred at C6-C7 from neutral to extension (P = .003) and in vertebral canal height at C5-C6 and C6-C7 from neutral to extension (P = .011 and .017, respectively). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE Our results suggest that kMRI is feasible and provides additional information beyond what is observed with neutral imaging, primarily when using extension views, in dogs with DA-CSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Provencher
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - A Habing
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - S A Moore
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - L Cook
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - G Phillips
- College of Veterinary Medicine and the Center for Biostatistics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - R C da Costa
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
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da Costa RC, Cook LB. Cystic Abnormalities of the Spinal Cord and Vertebral Column. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2015; 46:277-93. [PMID: 26706913 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2015.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Cystic lesions of the vertebral column and spinal cord are important differential diagnoses in dogs with signs of spinal cord disease. Synovial cysts are commonly associated with degenerative joint disease and usually affect the cervical and lumbosacral regions. Arachnoid diverticulum (previously known as cyst) is seen in the cervical region of large breed dogs and thoracolumbar region of small breed dogs. This article reviews the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of these and other, less common, cystic lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronaldo C da Costa
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210-1089, USA.
| | - Laurie B Cook
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210-1089, USA
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