Canine Seventh Lumbar Vertebra Fracture: A Systematic Review

Abstract

(1) Background: Lumbosacral traumatic injuries are reported as 39% of canine vertebral lesions. This area is prone to fracture and luxation. Several surgical techniques were described from 1975 to 2021 to stabilize the traumatic injuries of the lumbosacral junction. This report aims to critically review the available literature focused on clinical presentation, surgical techniques, and follow-up of the lumbar vertebra fracture. (2) Methods: Three bibliographic databases: PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus were used with a board search of Lumbosacral junction fracture AND, of L7 fracture AND (canine OR dog). The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist for case reports and case series was applied for the studies included. (3) Results: A total of 432 reports yielded only nine that met the inclusion criteria. Non-ambulatory paraparesis/plegia, sciatic nerve involvement, faecal/urinary incontinence, and severe back lumbar pain were the most reported signs. Survey radiographs were the most reported technique to confirm the diagnoses. The surgical treatment was reported in all reports examined with a good long-term prognosis. (4) Conclusions: The seventh lumbar vertebra fracture, despite the different surgical techniques performed, had a favourable prognosis for long-term outcome and neurological recovery.

Diagnostic and Treatment of Spinal Fracture and Luxation in Italian Wolves (Canis lupus italicus)

“…Both pins and screws have been used in association with PMMA, and even though pins have a better bending strength according to Garcia et al (1994) [ 33 ], they may have several disadvantages. Pins are easy to apply but, in comparison with cortical bone screws, are more likely to migrate, are less resistant to pullout [ 34 ] and, unlike screws, their strength is strongly influenced by their diameter [ 35 ]. Potential side effects of screw/pin–PMMA implants are risk of thermal injury caused by the exothermic reaction during the application of PMMA, difficult wound closure over bulking PMMA and a potential risk of infections.…”

“…Potential side effects of screw/pin–PMMA implants are risk of thermal injury caused by the exothermic reaction during the application of PMMA, difficult wound closure over bulking PMMA and a potential risk of infections. The incorporation of antibiotics into the polymer powder before mixing can reduce this risk [ 35 ]. Current treatment recommendations for cervical spinal injuries in dogs include bandages and splints, unless the neurological grade deteriorates [ 36 ]; however, there is no clear consensus on the best therapeutic approach for humans and animals [ 37 ].…”