Stabilization of Vertebral Fracture and Luxation with Stainless Steel Wire in a Persian Cat: A Case Report

Abstract

This study was planned to stabilize vertebral fracture and luxation with stainless steel wire in a Persian cat. This case was observed at Shahedul Alam Quadary Teaching Veterinary Hospital (SAQTVH) during an internship placement. A female Persian cat was brought with a history of falling from 9th floor of a building. After conducting physical and radiological examinations, the cat was diagnosed with fracture at T13 vertebra and dislocation between T12-T13 vertebrae. The patient showed partial paraplegia with moderate nociception in the hind quarter. Despite initial medical therapy, spinal surgery was deemed necessary to correct the condition. The surgery was performed under gaseous anesthesia following standard surgical procedures. Using stainless steel wire during surgery proved essential in addressing spinal stabilization procedures for a cat. Post-operative care included administering systemic antibiotics, painkillers, vasodilators, anticonvulsants and vitamin supplements. Applying povidone-iodine to the wound was also recommended until it fully healed. Notably, the cat’s post-operative recovery remained smooth, and no significant complications were observed. After surgery, the owner was advised to keep the cat indoors with restricted movement. Neurological response and clinical improvements were observed as soon as two weeks after the surgery. The cat remained free of any unusual clinical signs during the one-month follow-up examination.