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Nicolas et al: Scapular Osteotomy for Lateral Access to a T1-2 Foraminal Disc Extrusion, Treated by Mini-Hemilaminectomy in a Dog
Veterinary and Comparative Orthopedics and Traumatology 2, 2024

🔍 Key Findings Summary

  • The lateral approach via scapular osteotomy allowed safe access to the T1-2 foramen in a French Bulldog with foraminal disc extrusion.
  • A mini-hemilaminectomy was performed, preserving articular facets.
  • The dog had no neurologic deficits postoperatively, returned to ambulation within 24 hours, and was discharged in 3 days.
  • At 10 months, CT confirmed excellent scapular healing and no recurrence.
  • Double 2.4-mm locking plates provided stable fixation across the scapular spine.
  • The technique avoided thoracic entry or dorsal spine dissection, suggesting a less invasive alternative for select T1-2 foraminal cases.

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Nicolas et al: Scapular Osteotomy for Lateral Access to a T1-2 Foraminal Disc Extrusion, Treated by Mini-Hemilaminectomy in a Dog
Veterinary and Comparative Orthopedics and Traumatology 2, 2024

🔍 Key Findings Summary

  • The lateral approach via scapular osteotomy allowed safe access to the T1-2 foramen in a French Bulldog with foraminal disc extrusion.
  • A mini-hemilaminectomy was performed, preserving articular facets.
  • The dog had no neurologic deficits postoperatively, returned to ambulation within 24 hours, and was discharged in 3 days.
  • At 10 months, CT confirmed excellent scapular healing and no recurrence.
  • Double 2.4-mm locking plates provided stable fixation across the scapular spine.
  • The technique avoided thoracic entry or dorsal spine dissection, suggesting a less invasive alternative for select T1-2 foraminal cases.

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Multiple Choice Questions on this study

In Nicolas 2024 et al., how was the scapular osteotomy stabilized?

A. Single locking plate
B. Single non-locking plate
C. External fixator
D. K-wire cerclage
E. Double 2.4-mm locking plates

Answer: Double 2.4-mm locking plates

Explanation: Two locking plates were placed cranial and caudal to the scapular spine:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
In Nicolas 2024 et al., what postoperative outcome was observed at 1 month?

A. Recurrence of disc extrusion
B. Implant loosening
C. Neurologic deterioration
D. Persistent neck pain
E. Slight thoracic limb lameness

Answer: Slight thoracic limb lameness

Explanation: The dog showed only a slight forelimb lameness, with no pain or neurologic deficit:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
In Nicolas 2024 et al., what surgical technique was used to decompress the foramen at T1–2?

A. Dorsal laminectomy
B. Hemilaminectomy
C. Lateral corpectomy
D. Mini-hemilaminectomy
E. Pediculectomy

Answer: Mini-hemilaminectomy

Explanation: The foramen was decompressed using a minimally invasive mini-hemilaminectomy while preserving articular facets:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
In Nicolas 2024 et al., what spinal level was targeted using the lateral scapular osteotomy approach?

A. C5–C6
B. T2–T3
C. T1–T2
D. T3–T4
E. T1–T3

Answer: T1–T2

Explanation: The novel lateral approach was used for a foraminal disc extrusion at T1–T2:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
In Nicolas 2024 et al., what was a key advantage of the lateral scapular osteotomy approach versus dorsal or ventral routes?

A. Reduced surgery time
B. Direct visualization of dorsal spinous processes
C. Minimized bleeding
D. Avoided thoracic entry and preserved vertebral stability
E. Enabled bilateral access

Answer: Avoided thoracic entry and preserved vertebral stability

Explanation: The approach offered good foramen access while preserving articular facets and minimizing spinal disruption:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

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