Hemilaminectomy and spinal fixation in a cat with vertebral subluxation between L1 and L2

Abstract

A four-month-old female cat with pelvic limb proprioception (PL) deficit and non-ambulatory paraparesis with 10 days of presentation was referred for consultation. Neurological examination revealed thoracolumbar pain on digital pressure, normoreflexia of the pelvic limbs and neurological deficits in postural reactions (jumping test and postural extensor), while proprioception was absent in the left PL and reduced in the right PL. Deep sensitivity was normal and superficial sensitivity was absent in the left PL. Radiology confirmed the diagnosis of vertebral subluxation between the first and second lumbar vertebrae, with signs of spinal cord compression, deformation of the vertebral body of the second lumbar and signs of disc spondylitis. The surgical plan included left dorsolateral surgical decompression by hemilaminectomy and vertebral stabilization with screws and bone cement, achieving spinal fixation from the thirteenth thoracic vertebra to the third lumbar vertebra. The postoperative period was characterized by pain management, antibiotherapy and absolute rest for 21 days. The proprioceptive neurological deficit persisted during the first two weeks and, from this time onwards, the animal recovered full motor and sensory function of the hind limbs until full recovery.