Microendoscopic Dorsal Laminectomy for Multi-Level Cervical Intervertebral Disc Protrusions in Dogs

The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and clinical outcomes of microendoscopic dorsal laminectomy for multi-level cervical intervertebral disc protrusions in dogs. Eight client-owned dogs diagnosed with multi-level cervical intervertebral disc protrusions using computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were included in this retrospective case series. Microendoscopic dorsal laminectomies (MEL) were performed with an integrated endoscopic system to the cranial and caudal vertebrae of the affected intervertebral joints. Pre- and post-operative neurological status, operation time, intra-operative complications, and postoperative complications were reviewed. Post-operative CT images were obtained to measure the dimensions of laminectomy and compared to those of planned laminectomy. Full endoscopic procedures were feasible in 7 dogs (87.5%) and the laminectomy dimensions were in agreement with pre-operative planning. In all dogs, major intra- and postoperative complications did not occur. Conversion to open surgery was required in one case. Short-term postoperative clinical deterioration was found in two dogs. Long-term clinical outcomes were good and comparable to those reported in previous studies of open dorsal laminectomies. MEL is a promising minimally invasive approach to multi-level cervical dorsal laminectomy for intervertebral disc protrusions. This technique may improve postoperative discomfort compared to the open approach. Further studies are needed to directly compare outcomes between these two approaches.