Analysis of surgical correction of atlantoaxial instability in dogs

Effectiveness of ventral surgical approach in correction of atlanto-axial instability in dogs of toy breeds was analyzed in the research. 135 clinical cases of surgical correction, the general concept of surgical access and implant placement, which minimize risks of iatrogenic complications, were studied. Ventral stabilization was carried out by forming an arthrodesis between atlas and epistropheus by inserting screws or spokes through articular structures and vertebral bodies from ventral surface and then fixing them with bone cement. In the studied method, there are also complications in form of failure of metal structures or damage to recurrent laryngeal nerve, but, according to statistics, the incidence of these complications in world practice does not exceed 20 %. Among the possible complications during the operation are death of animal because of sudden respiratory arrest associated with spinal cord injury, migration or breakage of implants, inadequate alignment of spine. In addition, implants may not be placed correctly causing chronic pain or damage to the spinal cord. As a result of the operation, 104 dogs fully recovered, partial preservation of neurological deficit was observed in 13 animals, 18 animals died in the early postoperative period. Complications that did not lead to a deterioration in neurological status and quality of life occurred in 17 animals. Analyzing the work done, the method of ventral stabilization in the treatment of atlanto-axial instability can be recommended as the most reliable and optimal method, since it is technically simple and has good long-term results. Statistical data showed good results, the method is effective and allows to fully return the animal to a quality life in more than 86 % of cases.