Modified Segmental Spinal Instrumentation in Repair of Spinal Fractures and Luxations in Dogs

A modified segmental spinal stabilization technique was used in four dogs weighing 10 to 56 kg with thoracolumbar and lumbosacral spinal fractures/luxations. A Steinmann pin was bent to encircle the dorsal spinous processes and was wired together with longitudinal pins to the cranial articular facets and dorsal spinous processes in the thoracolumbar application. The central pin was omitted, and the longitudinal pins were bent at a right angle and passed through the ilial wings in the lumbosacral application. Fracture fixation and stabilization were excellent in all dogs. One broken pin was detected in one dog after 18 months. No other complications due to the spinal instrumentation were observed. Neurologic recovery was excellent in two dogs, good in one dog, and fair in one dog.