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Violini et al: Clinical outcomes of 20 brachycephalic dogs with thoracolumbar spinal deformities causing neurological signs treated with spinal stabilization using 3D-printed patient-specific drill guides
Veterinary Surgery 4, 2024

🔍 Key Findings

  • Spinal stabilization with 3D-printed patient-specific drill guides (3D-PSGs) was safe, with no immediate perioperative complications reported.
  • 84% of pedicle screws were optimally placed, and only 0.5% breached the spinal canal, reflecting high placement accuracy.
  • 80% of dogs experienced no neurologic deterioration postoperatively, indicating reliable short-term safety.
  • 3D-PSGs were accurate and reproducible, even across multiple institutions and surgeons.
  • Mid-term outcomes were favorable: all dogs were ambulatory, and 90% had static or improved neurologic signs.
  • 7 of 10 mid-term follow-ups showed abnormal gait, though owners rated lifestyle ≥3/5, suggesting acceptable function.
  • 3D-printed guides enabled precise pedicle screw placement in deformed vertebrae, expanding options in small breeds.
  • One dog suffered a T4 spinous process fracture due to overextension of PMMA cement, emphasizing the need for cement placement caution.

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← Articles

Violini et al: Clinical outcomes of 20 brachycephalic dogs with thoracolumbar spinal deformities causing neurological signs treated with spinal stabilization using 3D-printed patient-specific drill guides
Veterinary Surgery 4, 2024

🔍 Key Findings

  • Spinal stabilization with 3D-printed patient-specific drill guides (3D-PSGs) was safe, with no immediate perioperative complications reported.
  • 84% of pedicle screws were optimally placed, and only 0.5% breached the spinal canal, reflecting high placement accuracy.
  • 80% of dogs experienced no neurologic deterioration postoperatively, indicating reliable short-term safety.
  • 3D-PSGs were accurate and reproducible, even across multiple institutions and surgeons.
  • Mid-term outcomes were favorable: all dogs were ambulatory, and 90% had static or improved neurologic signs.
  • 7 of 10 mid-term follow-ups showed abnormal gait, though owners rated lifestyle ≥3/5, suggesting acceptable function.
  • 3D-printed guides enabled precise pedicle screw placement in deformed vertebrae, expanding options in small breeds.
  • One dog suffered a T4 spinous process fracture due to overextension of PMMA cement, emphasizing the need for cement placement caution.

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Multiple Choice Questions on this study

In Violini 2024 et al., on 3D-guided spinal stabilization in brachycephalic dogs, what clinical finding was reported in 7 of 10 mid-term cases despite all being ambulatory?

A. Normal proprioception
B. Scuffing of forepaws
C. Seizure episodes
D. Abnormal gait
E. Paralysis of tail

Answer: Abnormal gait

Explanation: Most owners reported residual abnormal gait (scuffing, wide stance) despite ambulatory status:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
In Violini 2024 et al., on 3D-guided spinal stabilization in brachycephalic dogs, what percentage of pedicle screws achieved optimal placement?

A. 64%
B. 74%
C. 84%
D. 90%
E. 96%

Answer: 84%

Explanation: 84% of pedicle screws were fully contained within the pedicle and vertebral body (Grade I):contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.
In Violini 2024 et al., on 3D-guided spinal stabilization in brachycephalic dogs, what percentage of dogs experienced no neurologic deterioration postoperatively?

A. 50%
B. 65%
C. 80%
D. 90%
E. 100%

Answer: 80%

Explanation: 80% of dogs maintained their preoperative neurologic status immediately post-op:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
In Violini 2024 et al., on 3D-guided spinal stabilization in brachycephalic dogs, which of the following best describes the utility of 3D-printed drill guides?

A. Required fluoroscopy for accurate screw placement
B. Improved cosmetic appearance post-op
C. Enabled screw placement in deformed vertebrae
D. Increased surgical duration and risk
E. Only usable with dorsal laminectomy

Answer: Enabled screw placement in deformed vertebrae

Explanation: 3D-PSGs enabled accurate pedicle screw placement in small deformed vertebrae of brachycephalic dogs:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
In Violini 2024 et al., on 3D-guided spinal stabilization in brachycephalic dogs, what postoperative complication occurred due to PMMA cement overextension?

A. Implant loosening
B. T4 spinous process fracture
C. Spinal canal stenosis
D. Neurologic regression
E. Vertebral instability

Answer: T4 spinous process fracture

Explanation: A fracture of T4 spinous process was attributed to PMMA extending cranially into a mobile segment:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.

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