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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 27, 2026

Modified Posterior Vertebral Column Resection for Patients with Thoracolumbar Kyphotic Deformity

Modified Posterior Vertebral Column Resection for Patients with Thoracolumbar Kyphotic Deformity

Published on: September 16, 2022

Thoracic kyphosis associated with hemivertebra.

Pierre Moissonnier¹, Pauline Gossot, Stefano Scotti

¹Department of Surgery, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Maisons Alfort Cedex, France. pmoissonnier@vet-alfort.fr

Veterinary Surgery : VS

|November 19, 2011

Summary

Thoracic hemivertebra in dogs is associated with spinal curvature (kyphosis) and malalignment, but not vertebral canal height. Surgical correction may decompress the spinal cord without widening the canal.

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Last Updated: May 27, 2026

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Minimally Invasive Treatment for Thoracolumbar Burst Fracture Using Sagittal Alignment Screws and A Trauma Reduction Device

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Published on: November 8, 2024

Area of Science:

Veterinary Radiology
Canine Orthopedics
Neurology

Background:

Thoracic hemivertebra is a congenital vertebral anomaly in dogs.
Its impact on spinal alignment and neurological function requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

To radiographically evaluate the relationship between thoracic hemivertebra, kyphosis, and neurological status in dogs.
To determine if vertebral canal height is affected by thoracic hemivertebra.

Main Methods:

A case series involving 45 French Bulldogs was conducted.
Dogs were categorized into three groups based on hemivertebra presence and neurological signs.
Radiographic measurements included vertebral canal height, vertebral column angle, and intervertebral step.

Main Results:

Vertebral canal height showed no significant difference across groups.
A significant difference in vertebral column angle was observed between dogs with and without hemivertebra and neurological signs (P < .001).
The cranial step measurement significantly differed between groups, indicating increasing malalignment with clinical signs (P < .001).

Conclusions:

Thoracic hemivertebra is associated with kyphosis and subluxation, correlating with neurological deficits.
Vertebral canal height is not a differentiating factor in dogs with or without thoracic hemivertebra.
Spinal cord decompression in affected dogs may be achievable through vertebral realignment without canal widening.