Preliminary report of spinal cord injuries resulting from inappropriate microchip implantation in two puppies

J. Vet. Med. Sci., 2023 · DOI: 10.1292/jvms.22-0344 · Published: January 1, 2023

Simple Explanation

This report discusses two cases of puppies that suffered spinal cord injuries due to improper microchip implantation. After a law was passed in Japan mandating microchips for pets, two puppies were brought to a veterinary facility with acute paresis following microchip implantation. In both cases, the microchips were found to be improperly placed, causing compression of the spinal cord. One puppy recovered with medical management, while the other required surgical intervention. The report suggests that inadequate training of veterinarians, improper restraint of the animals, and the small size of the puppies may have contributed to these incidents. It emphasizes the importance of proper training and caution during microchip implantation, especially in small animals.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Two puppies (Toy Poodle/Maltese mix and Chihuahua)

Evidence Level

Level 4: Case Series

Key Findings

1
Two puppies experienced spinal cord injuries due to inappropriate microchip implantation following a new law mandating microchipping in Japan.
2
In both cases, the microchips were found within the vertebral canal, causing spinal cord compression, as confirmed by radiography and CT scans.
3
One puppy recovered with medical management, and the other after attempted surgical retrieval of the microchip. Both puppies were deemed unfit for sale due to the incidents.

Research Summary

This report describes two cases of spinal cord injury in puppies resulting from inappropriate microchip implantation following the implementation of a revised Animal Welfare and Management Law in Japan. The cases highlight the potential for iatrogenic spinal cord injury due to improper implantation techniques, particularly in small, lightweight animals. Contributing factors may include inadequate training, improper restraint, and the small size of the animals. The authors emphasize the importance of adequate training and caution when performing microchip implantation, especially in small and hyperactive animals, to avoid such complications.

Practical Implications

Veterinary Training

Adequate hands-on training workshops should be provided to veterinarians, especially those with limited experience, to ensure proper microchip implantation techniques.

Restraint Protocols

Two people should be involved in microchip implantation for hyperactive and small animals to ensure adequate restraint and prevent unintended injury.

Revised Guidelines

Current guidelines for microchip implantation should be reviewed and revised to emphasize the importance of proper technique and caution, particularly in small breeds and lightweight animals.

Study Limitations

1
Limited to two cases, making it difficult to draw broad conclusions.
2
Cases were identified and referred from a specific region (Kyushu), potentially limiting generalizability.
3
Lack of long-term follow-up data on the neurological outcomes of the affected puppies.

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