Med. Weter. 82 (5), 220-226, 2026
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| SADIK YAYLA, NAHİT SAYLAK, MEHMET KILINÇ, BERNA ERSÖZ KANAY, EMİNE ÇATALKAYA |
| Evaluation of vertebral endplate fractures associated with spinal trauma in cats: short-term clinical outcomes |
| This retrospective study analyzed 79 cats with spinal trauma treated at Dicle University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine between 2022 and 2025, focusing on 12 cases (9.48%) with radiographically confirmed vertebral endplate fractures. Cases were graded I-V based on neurological dysfunction, which guided surgical planning. Fractures were observed at various levels in the thoracolumbar region and often extended beyond the endplate to dorsal or middle vertebral segments. Surgical stabilization was performed using a polyaxial screw and rod system; some cases also required hemilaminectomy or laminectomy. Postoperative follow-up over four weeks showed that recovery was good in 25% (3/12) of cases, functional in 33% (4/12) of cases, and poor in 25% (3/12) of cases. In 17% (2/12) of cases treatment was declined. Fractures in the thoracic region were associated with worse outcomes compared to lumbar fractures. Additionally, postoperative passive exercises and physical therapy appeared to support recovery. The findings emphasize that vertebral endplate fractures, although frequently overlooked, are crucial for maintaining spinal stability and disc health. Accurate early diagnosis, combined with anatomical reduction and appropriate stabilization techniques, is vital for long-term success, especially in young animals. The study highlights the need for clinicians to prioritize endplate fractures during diagnosis and surgical intervention, as proper management can significantly improve long-term neurological and structural outcomes in feline spinal trauma. |
| Keywords: Cat vertebral endplate fractures, Polyaxial screw, Spinal trauma, Short-Term Clinical Outcomes Vertebral stabilization |