Vertebral malformation

Question 1

Prevalence

Answer 1

• relatively uncommon
• except in the screw-tail breeds where they are very common

Question 2

Where do bulldogs and pugs predominantly get hemivertebrae malformation?

Answer 2

• in the thoracic region

Question 3

What can these malformation cause?

Answer 3

• often create a kyphosis
• not all malformations are clinically significant or will go on to cause a problem
• those that are clinically significant usually present with progressive paresis (paraparesis for thoracic issues) which may be painful, but acute destabilisations can be seen

Question 4

Tx

Answer 4

• surgical tx is mainly based on stabilisation to prevent further progression