What clinical signs could be caused by malformation or trauma to the dens process?

What clinical signs could be caused by malformation or trauma to the dens process?

Further displacement of the dens into the spinal canal can lead to diaphram paralysis, respiratory failure and death.

Where is the atlantoaxial joint?

cervical spine
The C1 C2 spinal motion segment, also called the atlantoaxial joint, is located in the upper portion of the cervical spine. It consists of the C1 and C2 vertebrae, and the anatomical structures connecting them. This segment provides rotational motion, supports the head, and protects the spinal cord and nerve pathways.

Is atlantoaxial instability good?

Prognosis is good for patients with symptomatic AAI in whom posterior spinal fusion is successful and function returns. Surgery may relieve pain, decrease myelopathy, or both in many patients, with results depending on the severity of symptoms and the cause of instability.

What is subluxation of the hip in dogs?

Subluxation is the term referring to a partial separation of the joint. The most commonly subluxated joints in dogs include the hip and elbow, although any joint can be affected.

What movement occurs at the atlantoaxial joint?

The primary movement of the atlantoaxial joint complex is rotation. In rotation the atlas together with the head, rotate around the dens of axis. This movement allows us to turn our head to look towards the left or towards the right.

How is atlantoaxial subluxation diagnosed?

Subluxation of C1 on C2, referred to as atlantoaxial subluxation, can be quantified by a measurement made between the back of the anterior arch of C1 and the front of the dens or odontoid. This distance is referred to as the atlas-dens interval (ADI).

What causes atlantoaxial subluxation?

The causes of atlantoaxial subluxation may be multifactorial, including transverse ligament damage by a periodontoidal proliferative pannus or sequelae of ossification of the anterior and posterior longitudinal ligaments, associated inflammatory lesions (cervical spine osteoarthritis, atlantodental synovitis, erosions …

What is atlantoaxial luxation in dogs?

Atlantoaxial (AA) luxation is a condition in which instability, or excessive movement, is present between the first two vertebrae within the neck. This spinal disorder is most commonly seen in young, small breed dogs, such as Toy Poodles, Miniature Poodles, Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians, and Chihuahuas.

Can a CT scan show atlantoaxial instability in dogs?

Diagnosis of Atlantoaxial Instability (Luxation) in Dogs. A CT scan can show fractures of the dens and displacement of the atlas. The severity of the condition will be dependent on the amount of pressure on the spinal cord and the duration of time your dog has had this condition.

Can a small breed dog get an atlantoaxial joint injury?

These injuries can occur in any breed of dog at any age, if the right forces are applied. In some small-breed dogs, however, hereditary factors may contribute to an abnormal atlantoaxial joint. In many cases, the dens is abnormally shaped, interfering with how the atlas and axis fit together.

When does a dog need surgery for atlantoaxial nerve damage?

In the case of long-standing neurologic signs, or a dog that has not responded to conservative treatment, surgery is often required. The goal of surgery is to permanently stabilize the atlantoaxial joint, in order to prohibit excessive motion and relieve pressure on the spinal cord.