[Laminotomy and reconstruction of the spinal canal in an experiment]

Surgical access into the spinal canal allowing reconstruction of the axis of the body is reported. The technique of laminotomy was first tested on 5 dogs which were to be involved in other experiments. Healing of the spinal column and overall outcome were followed up on further 4 dogs surviving three months after the procedure. The operation, carried out in general anesthesia induced by IV administration of thiopental (SPOFA), proved to be relatively simple in all the 9 dogs, weighing 10-24 kg. Plain radiologic, perimyelographic, as well as histologic examinations performed in 4 dogs after three-month survival showed virtually perfect healing of the reconstructed spinal canal and no stenosis at the site of the procedure.