Magnetic resonance imaging characteristics of atlanto-axial subluxation in 42 dogs: Analysis of joint cavity size, subluxation distance, and craniocervical junction anomalies

Open Veterinary Journal, 2023 · DOI: 10.5455/OVJ.2023.v13.i9.4 · Published: September 30, 2023

Neurology Medical Imaging Veterinary Medicine

Simple Explanation

Atlanto-axial (AA) subluxation is a condition affecting small breed dogs that can lead to significant health problems. This study used MRI to examine the characteristics of AA subluxation in dogs, focusing on the size of the joint cavity and other abnormalities. Researchers compared MRI scans of dogs diagnosed with AA subluxation to those of healthy dogs to identify differences. The goal was to find measurable MRI characteristics that could aid in diagnosing AA subluxation. The study found that dogs with AA subluxation had larger joint cavities and more spinal cord compression than the control group. They suggest that specific measurements from MRI scans can help diagnose the condition.

Study Duration

2005 to 2013

Participants

42 dogs with AA subluxation and 26 control dogs

Evidence Level

Retrospective study

Key Findings

1
Dogs with AA subluxation showed a higher likelihood of intramedullary hyperintensity at the compression level.
2
An increased AA joint cavity size was observed in dogs with AA subluxation compared to control dogs.
3
Increased spinal cord compression at the level of the dens and mid-body C2 was present in dogs with AA subluxation.

Research Summary

This study investigated the MRI characteristics of atlanto-axial (AA) subluxation in dogs by comparing affected dogs with a control group. The study focused on joint cavity size, subluxation distance, and the presence of other craniocervical abnormalities. The results showed that dogs with AA subluxation were more likely to have intramedullary hyperintensity, increased AA joint cavity size, and increased spinal cord compression compared to control dogs. The study suggests cutoff values for AA joint cavity size and subluxation distance that can aid in MRI diagnosis. The study concluded that while AA subluxation does not correlate with a higher incidence of Chiari-like malformation, syringohydromyelia, or hydrocephalus, the lack of dens and odontoid ligaments are associated with larger subluxations.

Practical Implications

Improved Diagnosis

The suggested MRI cutoffs (AA joint cavity size >1.4 mm and subluxation distance >2.5 mm) can assist veterinarians in diagnosing AA subluxation more accurately.

Enhanced Understanding

The study clarifies the relationship between AA subluxation and other craniocervical abnormalities, informing clinical expectations.

Treatment Planning

Identifying the degree of spinal cord compression and ligament integrity via MRI can help guide surgical or conservative management strategies.

Magnetic resonance imaging characteristics of atlanto-axial subluxation in 42 dogs: Analysis of joint cavity size, subluxation distance, and craniocervical junction anomalies

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Improved Diagnosis

Enhanced Understanding

Treatment Planning

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Magnetic resonance imaging characteristics of atlanto-axial subluxation in 42 dogs: Analysis of joint cavity size, subluxation distance, and craniocervical junction anomalies

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Improved Diagnosis

Enhanced Understanding

Treatment Planning

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?