The effect of posterior spinal fixation with bone cement upon vertebral growth in dogs. An experimental study.

In an experimental study the authors tried to clarify the effect on vertebral growth and spinal curvature in dogs following fixation of the posterior elements of the spine at different levels using bone cement. In three separate experimental groups a segment of the dorsal spine, the dorso-lumbar spine or the lumbar spine was securely fixed with bone cement incorporating a radio-opaque wire marker. Growth of the spine was observed with renal X-rays over a six-month period and the following results obtained: 1. Growth in height of the vertebra was not affected by the fixation; 2. The intervertebral disc spaces widened anteriorly and narrowed posteriorly even when fracture of the bone cement occurred; 3. Increasing lordosis developed in all three experimental groups even when a physiological kyphosis was normally present. The greatest increase occurred in the lumbar spine; 4. Fracture of the cement occurred consistently when attempting to secure the dorso-lumbar junction.