Assessing the presence of vertebral column instability is essential in animals with vertebral fractures or luxations. Spinal instability is most commonly assessed using a three-compartment model and unstable vertebral fractures and luxations require surgical stabilisation. In cases of compression of the spinal cord (by haematoma, traumatic intervertebral disc extrusion or bone fragment), decompression surgery is necessary. Prompt surgery prevents additional spinal cord damage, but the overall condition of the patient, including any concurrent injuries, needs to be continually kept in mind. The vertebral column can be stabilised using multiple techniques, such as screws, pins, polymethylmetacrylate and plating techniques, as well as external stabilisation and spinal stapling. Complications of spinal surgeries include haemorrhage, infection, neurological deterioration, particularly in cases of spinal stabilisations, implant loosening and failure.
A comparative study of breed differences in the anatomical configuration of the equine vertebral column