Vertebral Subluxation Repair in a Pet Goat

Objectives: To describe the perioperative management, including surgery, anesthe-sia, metabolic derangements, and physiotherapy, in a goat referred for paraparesissecondary to a road traffic accident.Study Design: Case report.Animals: 2-year-old mixed breed dwarf 44 kg female pet goat.Methods: Clinical examination showed symptoms of early compensatory stages ofshock, paraparesis with hyperextension of the thoracic limbs, pain on palpation ofthe thoracolumbar spine, increased patellar reflexes of both pelvic limbs withoutsuperficial sensitivity, but preserved deep pain sensation. These signs suggested a spi-nal cord injury with upper motor neuron syndrome and an anatomic localizationbetween the third thoracic and third lumbar vertebrae. Radiographic examinationrevealed a thoracolumbar vertebral subluxation. Vertebral stabilization was achievedwith the application of pins in the vertebral bodies stabilized by an interconnectingbridge of polymethylmethacrylate, a technique commonly adopted in companionanimals.Results: Surgery and recovery from anesthesia were uneventful, but 3 days laterruminal atony and subsequent bloating occurred. This was associated with metabolicderangements (metabolic alkalosis), decreased mentation, and marked tachypnea thatresponded to medical treatment. From day 3 post-surgery, the goat underwent physio-therapy with manual and active exercises during the rehabilitation period of 21 daysduration.Conclusion: The injury in this goat was successfully managed using vertebral stabi-lization similar to that used in dogs and cats. Extensive postoperativephysiotherapeutic support contributed to the complete recovery of the animal.