3D printing technology used to help treat spinal condition

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Veterinary neurology specialists from the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies have utilised a unique 3D-printed spinal guide to allow them to surgically stabilise a dogs’ vertebrae.

Geralt, a one-year-old pug, was referred to the Neurology Service with several neurological problems including paraparesis, pelvic limb ataxia and faecal and urinary incontinence. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) confirmed a spinal arachnoid diverticulum (SAD). Computed tomography (CT) also identified that the caudal thoracic vertebrae had some anomalies (absence of some articulating joints) that could either contribute to instability or lead to instability if the SAD was addressed surgically.

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Uncommon condition

A SAD is an abnormal accumulation of spinal fluid within the meninges surrounding the spinal cord. This accumulation of fluid subsequently compresses the spinal cord and has the potential to severely compromise neurological function.

After discussion with the clients, it was agreed that surgery to release the fluid and correct the malformation in Geralt’s vertebrae would give the best improvement to his long-term neurological function.

The Hospital supplied Fusion Implants Ltd with CT scan images and commissioned the production of an individualised 3D-printed guide to fix around the dog’s vertebrae during surgery. The guide provided corridors to enable the surgeons to drill and apply screws to the affected vertebrae with extreme precision. Bone cement was then used to help stabilise the vertebrae to prevent the condition from reoccurring.

Geralt recovered quickly from surgery and was quickly back to full health.

Neurology Specialists

The Neurology Service at the Hospital for Small Animals is one of the largest veterinary neurology referral services in Europe, with five European Diplomates, four residents and two dedicated neurology nurses.

The team has successfully operated on five dogs with SAD in the last 12 months, with each animal affected at different points in their neck and spine.

We are delighted to offer surgical solutions for animals with SAD and are keen to see how we can adopt the technology of using 3D models for other neurological uses.

Dr Aran Nagendran