Spinal fractures

Question 1

Where are spinal fractures most commonly seen?

Answer 1

Along the thoracolumbar and cervical spina

Question 2

What are the most common cause of spinal fractures?

Answer 2

RTA

bite injuries
fighting other dogs
gunshots

Question 3

what techniques are preferred generally when dealing with spinal fractures?

Answer 3

techniques that utilize the vertebral bodies, as the dorsal compartment structures are inherently weak and implant failure is not unusual.
Vertebral body screws or pins and cement and vertebral body plates are commonly used

Question 4

Why do we prefer screw and cement?

Answer 4

Screws (or pins) and cement are most versatile as the placement of implants into the vertebral bodies is not directed by the holes of a plate.
Can be placed in a bi-cortical manner, avoiding fracture lines
Significantly more strength in a bicortical fixation.
Locking screws with cement preferred.

Question 5

Why are polymethylmethacrylate bone cement preferred?

Answer 5

Short liquid phase, long dough phase