Axial skeleton Flashcards
Cervical vertebral malformation (Wobbler’s) is a disease in dogs and horses. What horse breeds are predisposed?
WB
TB
What is Cervical Vertebral Malformation (Wobbler’s)?
Condition (developmental or degenerative) causing narrowing of vertebral canal
Pressure on spinal cord
What factors can cause Cervical Vertebral Malformation (Wobbler’s)?
Genetics - WB, TB
Diet - high CHO
Exercise
Congenital
What are the two types of Cervical Vertebral Malformation (Wobbler’s)?
Type I - young horses, developmental abnormalities, dynamic stenosis
Type II - older horses, degenerative due to OA of articular processes, static stenosis
What are the treatment options for both types of Wobbler’s?
Type I - diet control only, reduced CHO
Type II - intra-articular steroids
What is the main clinical signs of Cervical Vertebral Malformation (Wobbler’s)?
Ataxia
FLs
What is CVSM?
Cervical Vertebral Stenotic Myelopathy
Affecting all 4 limbs (mainly HLs)
Nerve root impingement of which cervical nerves can cause forelimb lameness?
C6, C7
What is the treatment for dorsal articular facet arthropathy (spine arthritis -cartilage erosion and subchondral bone sclerosis due to age, CVM and previous trauma)?
Palliative NSAIDs Intrarticular medications Physio Exercise
What does the presence of white hairs behind the withers suggest?
Poor saddle fit
Which ligament is usually damaged, causing a rigid gait with a head elevated and reduced stride?
Supraspinous ligament
How is supraspinous ligament damage treated?
Cold compress NSAIDs Rest Physiotherapy Shockwaves
What is kissing spine?
Impingement of the dorsal spinous processes
May not be significant!
What are the treatment options for kissing spine/impingement of the dorsal spinous processes?
Medical treatment: NSAIDs, shockwave, physio
Surgical: removal of dorsal spinous processes
What is the medical term for equine spine arthritis?
Dorsal articular facet arthropathy
