Stabilization of Traumatic Thoracolumbar Subluxation using Patient-specific Drill Guide with Double Pin and Polymethylmethacrylate in a 12-year-old Maltese Dog

Abstract

Spinal instability in a 12-year-old Maltese with T11-12 subluxation presenting with neurological symptoms, including hindlimb paraplegia, was treated using double-pin and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) fixation. Postoperatively, neurological deficits and hindlimb paraplegia improved, enabling the dog to regain independent ambulation without assistance. Patient-specific drill guides enhanced the accuracy and safety of screw placement, highlighting their potential as an effective method for managing thoracolumbar subluxations in veterinary medicine.