Surgical stabilization of craniocervical junction abnormalities in two cats

Abstract

Two cats were evaluated because of clinical signs consistent with tetraplegia or ataxia of four limbs and cerebellar signs. The cats were diagnosed with craniocervical junction abnormalities (CJAs) by radiographs, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Both cats underwent surgical stabilization using a patient-specific titanium atlantoaxial (AA) fixation plate and drill guide templates. In case 2, in addition to AA fixation, the separated dens and the occipital bone compressing the cerebellum were removed. Repositioning and fixation of the AA joint using a custom drill guide template and titanium plate system improved the gait of both cats, but the cerebellar signs persisted. Although CJAs are uncommon in cats, the present cases indicate that surgical stabilization with a custom fixation system may represent a feasible treatment option.