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DOI: 10.3415/VCOT-15-09-0161
Mineralization of the transverse ligament of the atlas causing compressive radiculopathy
Resolution following odontoidectomy and atlantoaxial arthrodesisPublication History
Received:
25 September 2015
Accepted:
03 January 2016
Publication Date:
17 December 2017 (online)
![](https://www.thieme-connect.de/media/10.1055-s-00035023/201603/lookinside/thumbnails/10-3415-vcot-15-09-0161-1.jpg)
Summary
Objective: To describe a case of a Boxer dog with radiculopathy due to mineralization of the transverse ligament of the atlas and subsequent resorption and resolution of clinical signs after atlantoaxial arthrodesis and odontoidectomy.
Case Report: A five-year-old neutered female Boxer dog was presented with a four-month history of cervical hyperaesthesia refractory to medical management. Neurological examination and magnetic resonance imaging indicated a diagnosis of radiculopathy due to cervical nerve root impingement by dystrophic mineralization of the transverse ligament of the atlas. Odontoidectomy was performed by a ventral approach and atlantoaxial arthrodesis was achieved with a ventral composite polymethylmethacrylate and pin fixation.
Results: Atlantoaxial arthrodesis and progressive resorption of the mineralization following stabilization facilitated indirect decompression. The radioclinical diagnosis and response to arthrodesis was considered ana -logous to retro-odontoid pannus in the human.
Clinical relevance: A clinical condition similar to retro-odontoid pannus may exist in the canine and may be amenable to atlantoaxial arthrodesis.
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