Sharon C. Kerwin

Vertebral Subluxation Following Ventral Cervical Decompression in the Dog

Cervical intervertebral disk disease is commonly treated surgically by ventral decompression through a ventral slot. Nine dogs with documented vertebral subluxation following surgical creation of a ventral slot are reported. The location of the subluxation was at the fourth cervical (C4) to fifth cervical (C5) intervertebral space in two dogs, C5 to sixth cervical (C6) intervertebral space in four dogs, and C6 to seventh cervical (C7) intervertebral space in three dogs. The ventral slot width to vertebral body width ratio ranged from 0.39 to 0.80, with the ratio being 0.50 or greater in seven of eight cases evaluated radiographically. Surgical reduction and stabilization were performed in seven of nine dogs.

Hepatic Aspiration and Biopsy Techniques

Hepatic biopsy can be a key part of the diagnostic plan in dogs or cats with liver disease. There are a wide variety of techniques for the clinician to choose from based on the patients condition, liver size, equipment available, experience of the operator, and financial considerations. Although major complications are rare, the clinician should not attempt a biopsy procedure without being prepared to diagnose and treat complications appropriately if they occur. Many techniques for hepatic biopsy are easy to learn and to perform and should be a part of small animal practice at every level.