The average cost of cervical ventral slot will vary based on standards of living as well as any additional costs incurred, including medications, laboratory tests, and postoperative supportive care. The cost of cervical ventral slot surgery ranges from $3,600 to $4,600. Spine surgery is commonly indicated in certain breeds of dog that have degenerative disc disease. Minding the gold standard While we have advanced spinal imaging (CT myelogram) and experience performing spinal surgeries here at CARE Surgery Center, the gold standard of care involves magnetic resonance imaging (MRI scan) and a consultation with.
$1,000 to $3,000 is a typical cost for the sophisticated imaging techniques required in these cases.
Surgery is definitely a high-cost proposition in these cases.
Individual surgical procedures themselves will typically cost anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000.
$1,000 to $3,000 is a typical cost for the sophisticated imaging techniques required in these cases. Surgery is definitely a high-cost proposition in these cases. Individual surgical procedures themselves will typically cost anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000.
Generally, the prognosis for dogs with IVDD is quite good. Many dogs with mild cases of IVDD will regain feeling in their legs and walk again. Grade 5 dogs have a significantly lower chance of regaining function, but it is possible if surgery is performed early enough after the onset of paralysis.
Heart surgery is expensive. It's not uncommon for many open-heart surgeries to cost $75,000 to $100,000 in people. Even if veterinarians were able to perform the surgeries for one-tenth to one-fifth the cost of human heart surgery, that still equals about $10,000 to $20,000.
Diode Laser (for glaucoma treatment) This procedure must be performed under general anesthesia for safety purposes. The cost is approximately $1,400 (one eye) to $1,800 (both eyes).
$1,000 to $3,000 is a typical cost for the sophisticated imaging techniques required in these cases. Surgery is definitely a high-cost proposition in these cases. Individual surgical procedures themselves will typically cost anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000.
It is fairly typical for the costs associated with treatment for an (uncomplicated) case of GDV/Bloat to reach into the $2,500-5,000 range.
My Dog May Have IVDD. If we can not effectively manage a dog's pain and surgery is not an option, euthanasia may be the only way to humanely treat the issue. In particular, cervical lesions can be one of the most painful and difficult IVDD places to manage without surgery in some pets.
The cost of surgical treatment is significant. Because board-certified veterinary surgeons are almost always in order, the expense of surgery typically ranges from $1,500 to $3,000 per affected knee.
Heart surgery is expensive. It's not uncommon for many open-heart surgeries to cost $75,000 to $100,000 in people. Even if veterinarians were able to perform the surgeries for one-tenth to one-fifth the cost of human heart surgery, that still equals about $10,000 to $20,000.
Even if veterinarians were able to perform the surgeries for one-tenth to one-fifth the cost of human heart surgery, that still equals about $10,000 to $20,000. For many pet owners, despite their love for their pet, the cost is simply too much.
A typical TPLO surgery will cost between $2500 and $3500. Initially, your dog will need an X-Ray, which can cost around $200. Though not included in the above price, a second X-Ray is usually needed six months later, which will cost another $200.
How Much Does Dog Intestinal Blockage Surgery Cost? The cost to treat intestinal obstruction ranges anywhere from $800 to $7,000.
$1,000 to $3,000 is a typical cost for the sophisticated imaging techniques required in these cases. Surgery is definitely a high-cost proposition in these cases. Individual surgical procedures themselves will typically cost anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000.
$1,000 to $3,000 is a typical cost for the sophisticated imaging techniques required in these cases. Surgery is definitely a high-cost proposition in these cases. Individual surgical procedures themselves will typically cost anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000.
Hernia repair surgery can be expensive and price varies depending on the location of the hernia and the cost of living in your area. Hernia repair expenses range from $700 (for simple more common hernias) to $2,500 (more complex cases) with $1,600 being the average cost.
Orthopedic surgery in dogs is costly and can cost pet owners from $100 to $3,000 to have performed. The total cost depends on the type of procedure your veterinarian is performing and the specific condition your dog is suffering from.
Cost of Arthroscopic Surgery in Dogs. The cost of arthroscopic surgery can range from $1,500 to $4,000. The need for specialized equipment generally results in a higher cost. A surgeon who has received extra training for performing these types of surgeries is also necessary.
The cost of foreign body removal in dogs depends largely on the type of anesthesia and procedure needed to provide effective treatment. Endoscopic procedures commonly cost between $800 and $2,000, while open surgery, such as laparotomy, may range from $500 to $2,500.
Cost of Hernia Repair in Dogs. Hernia repair surgery can be expensive and price varies depending on the location of the hernia and the cost of living in your area. Hernia repair expenses range from $700 (for simple more common hernias) to $2,500 (more complex cases) with $1,600 being the average cost.
Most people know that when they get a dog or cat, a big part of the pet's expense will be routine veterinary care. On average, pet owners spend $235 per year in recurring medical costs for a dog and $160 for a cat, according to the ASPCA. But if a pet becomes ill or has an accident, those expenses can skyrocket.
Surgical Options. In severe cases of canine hip dysplasia, surgery is often the best treatment. Dog hip dysplasia surgery costs can range from $1,700 to $4,500+. Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis – A less invasive surgery that surgeons perform on dogs younger than five months old.
Spay or Neuter Surgery. Spaying or neutering a pet is the surgical removal of all or part of their reproductive organs. The cost for this type of surgery depends on the dog's age and weight. You can reasonably expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $250 or more depending, on the facility.
How Much Does Dog Intestinal Blockage Surgery Cost? The cost to treat intestinal obstruction ranges anywhere from $800 to $7,000.
In severe cases of canine hip dysplasia, surgery is often the best treatment. Dog hip dysplasia surgery costs can range from $1,700 to $4,500+. Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis – A less invasive surgery that surgeons perform on dogs younger than five months old.
But if you're prepared for the investment of two to four thousand dollars, the typical bladder stone surgery cost in dogs, surgery is a viable option. That's the cost for surgery to remove bladder stones in dogs.
There is quite a range in prices depending on what procedure is recommended by your veterinarian for your dog's knee repair and where you live. For example, a traditional repair can cost anywhere from $1000-2000+, whereas a TPLO surgery usually begins in the $2000 range.
At a general practice, the cost of enucleation surgery ranges from around $400 - $950 depending on the supportive care needed. Prescription eye drops for glaucoma cost around $15 -25 per bottle and may last around 2 - 3 weeks each.
How Much Does Dog Intestinal Blockage Surgery Cost? The cost to treat intestinal obstruction ranges anywhere from $800 to $7,000. The cost depends on how extensive the damage is, the length of his hospital stay, the types of medications required and other factors.
Most owners can expect to pay over $1,000 for the surgery, with older dogs or ones with questionable oral health costing more still. By contrast, an internal fixation procedure would easily cost over $1,000, with some estimates placing the price closer to $2,000.
Cost of Hernia Repair in Dogs. Hernia repair surgery can be expensive and price varies depending on the location of the hernia and the cost of living in your area. Hernia repair expenses range from $700 (for simple more common hernias) to $2,500 (more complex cases) with $1,600 being the average cost.
There is quite a range in prices depending on what procedure is recommended by your veterinarian for your dog's knee repair and where you live. For example, a traditional repair can cost anywhere from $1000-2000+, whereas a TPLO surgery usually begins in the $2000 range.
How Much Does Dog Intestinal Blockage Surgery Cost? The cost to treat intestinal obstruction ranges anywhere from $800 to $7,000. The cost depends on how extensive the damage is, the length of his hospital stay, the types of medications required and other factors.
The cost to have a gallbladder obstruction removed depends on the specific case and the type of surgical procedure performed. However, dog owners could estimate the cost of gallbladder removal surgery to be about $3,000-$6,000.
How Much Does Dog Intestinal Blockage Surgery Cost? The cost to treat intestinal obstruction ranges anywhere from $800 to $7,000. The cost depends on how extensive the damage is, the length of his hospital stay, the types of medications required and other factors.
Cost of Surgical Fracture Repair in Dogs. Due to the amount of time, equipment and aftercare required, a typical surgical repair for a leg fracture can cost upwards of $2,000. This price can be considerably higher depending on the age of the dog and any other medical conditions they may have.
And this is no cheap surgical procedure, I assure you. That's because board-certified surgeons, with their wealth of training and experience, are the go-to veterinarians for this procedure. Expect to spend between $2,000 and $4,000 per joint.
There is quite a range in prices depending on what procedure is recommended by your veterinarian for your dog's knee repair and where you live. For example, a traditional repair can cost anywhere from $1000-2000+, whereas a TPLO surgery usually begins in the $2000 range.
A standard course of chemotherapy costs between $3,000 and $5,000, and radiation treatments used for brain and nasal tumors run between $6,000 and $10,000. Costs vary by region and the type of cancer, among other factors.
There is quite a range in prices depending on what procedure is recommended by your veterinarian for your dog's knee repair and where you live. For example, a traditional repair can cost anywhere from $1000-2000+, whereas a TPLO surgery usually begins in the $2000 range.
$1,000 to $3,000 is a typical cost for the sophisticated imaging techniques required in these cases. Surgery is definitely a high-cost proposition in these cases. Individual surgical procedures themselves will typically cost anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000.
Treatment varies with the type of symptoms present. Oral anti-inflammatory medications and cage rest are reserved for dogs with mild signs, and often result in improvement within 48 hours. Cervical IVDD patients with even mild neurological dysfunction are considered surgical candidates.
The average total cost of ACL surgery is $9,276. Get a cost estimate based on your location, insurance, and doctor below. If you've injured your anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)—playing sports or overextending your knee joint—you may need ACL surgery, either known as ACL reconstruction or repair.
The Cost of Vet Care Top 10 Surgical Conditions in DogsAverage Cost of TreatmentCancer of the eyelid$717Bladder stones$1231Cancer of the liver$8539Aural hematoma (blood filled ear flap)$2966 autres lignes • 22 juin 2015
Doing both procedures together is called a Bulldog Package and costs $600. Soft palate resection by itself is $500 and stenotic nares by itself is $200.
Costs start at around $400 for preventative surgery. If your dog has to have a gastropexy because of bloat they are already experiencing, it's considered a medical emergency and you can expect fees in the range of $1200 all the way up to $5000 if complications arise.
But if you're prepared for the investment of two to four thousand dollars, the typical bladder stone surgery cost in dogs, surgery is a viable option. That's the cost for surgery to remove bladder stones in dogs.
There is quite a range in prices depending on what procedure is recommended by your veterinarian for your dog's knee repair and where you live. For example, a traditional repair can cost anywhere from $1000-2000+, whereas a TPLO surgery usually begins in the $2000 range.
There is quite a range in prices depending on what procedure is recommended by your veterinarian for your dog's knee repair and where you live. For example, a traditional repair can cost anywhere from $1000-2000+, whereas a TPLO surgery usually begins in the $2000 range.
Diagnosis and Treatment of IVDD. A veterinary examination will generally include a neurological exam, X-rays, and/or special imaging (myelogram, CT scan, MRI) to locate the source of spinal injury.
Other common illnesses and injuries Condition (click link for description)TreatmentCostIngestion of foreign bodyRequired surgery on cat to remove a swallowed hair pin$2,964Gastric dilation volvulus (GDV)Required surgery to turn the stomach back to normal and staple it to the wall of chest$3,5258 weitere Zeilen
The cost of exploratory surgery for dogs can vary wildly depending on your location, with most surgeries costing between $500 and $1,000.
Blepharoplasty can be a $300 to $500 proposition if performed by a general practitioner. Ophthalmologists and veterinary surgeons may charge between $500 and $1,500.
Cost of Total Liver Lobectomy in Dogs. The average cost for a total liver lobectomy is around $9,000. If an ultrasound paired with chemotherapy or radiation therapy is chosen as a treatment due to lower cost, the bill drops to around $3,000, but survival rates are lowered.
But if you're prepared for the investment of two to four thousand dollars, the typical bladder stone surgery cost in dogs, surgery is a viable option. That's the cost for surgery to remove bladder stones in dogs.
The Cost of Vet Care Top 10 Surgical Conditions in DogsAverage Cost of TreatmentCancer of the eyelid$717Bladder stones$1231Cancer of the liver$8539Aural hematoma (blood filled ear flap)$2966 weitere Zeilen • 22.06.2015
The cost of cataract surgery for dogs averages $3,500. This estimate includes the preliminary examination, ERG and ultrasound, surgery, anesthesia, operating room use, hospitalization, initial medications and postoperative checkups (usually up to 90 days).
Laser lithotripsy is considered a specialist procedure and is only performed at certain facilities. The cost is approximately $800 - $1,200 for the procedure, not including sedation or anaesthetics. The additional expenses for sedation or anaesthesia are dependent on the protocol used and can be between $500 - $1000.
Cost of this surgery is variable, depending on the size of your dog, the extent of the surgery and the rates of your veterinarian. A typical TPLO surgery will cost between $2500 and $3500. Initially, your dog will need an X-Ray, which can cost around $200.
$1,000 to $3,000 is a typical cost for the sophisticated imaging techniques required in these cases. Surgery is definitely a high-cost proposition in these cases. Individual surgical procedures themselves will typically cost anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000.
The cost of cataract surgery for dogs averages $3,500. This estimate includes the preliminary examination, ERG and ultrasound, surgery, anesthesia, operating room use, hospitalization, initial medications and postoperative checkups (usually up to 90 days).
IVDD in dogs (intervertebral disc disease) has a range of symptoms, from fairly mild to very serious. On one end of the spectrum is mild pain, with paralysis on the other end, and most dogs with the diagnosis falling somewhere in between.
Blepharoplasty can be a $300 to $500 proposition if performed by a general practitioner. Ophthalmologists and veterinary surgeons may charge between $500 and $1,500.
However, factors such as the age of the dog or additional health problems may raise the cost of the procedure somewhat. The majority of owners can expect to pay between $1,000 and $1,500 for surgery to release the meniscus in a single knee. Alternative treatment methods, meanwhile, are far less expensive.
Intervertebral disk disease (IVDD) is the most common cause of spinal cord injury in dogs. With proper attention, many dogs with this painful and debilitating condition can recover to a comfortable and more active lifestyle. The two most common locations of IVDD are thoracolumbar (mid-spine) and cervical (neck).
BACKGROUND: Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is considered a multifactorial disease that is influenced by both environmental and genetic factors. The last two decades of research strongly demonstrate that genetic factors contribute about 75% of the IVDD etiology.
The cost of cataract surgery for dogs averages $3,500. This estimate includes the preliminary examination, ERG and ultrasound, surgery, anesthesia, operating room use, hospitalization, initial medications and postoperative checkups (usually up to 90 days).
For patients not covered by health insurance, the cost of ACL reconstruction, including the surgeon's fee, facility fee, anesthesia and graft, if needed, ranges from just under $20,000 to $50,000. ACL reconstruction usually would be considered medically necessary and covered by health insurance.
Surgical Options. In severe cases of canine hip dysplasia, surgery is often the best treatment. Dog hip dysplasia surgery costs can range from $1,700 to $4,500+. Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis – A less invasive surgery that surgeons perform on dogs younger than five months old.
We can use the results to identify how common (prevalent) back disease is in our breed. The data shows that, typically, 1 in 4 Dachshunds will suffer some degree of back disease during their lifetime. This figure is about 10-12 times higher than would be expected in the general population of dogs.
Surgery is not the first or even second line of treatment for these animals. Therefore, the goal of most surgeries for urinary incontinence is to increase urethral sphincter resistance, increase the functional length of the urethra, or move the bladder and trigone into an intra-abdominal location.
Costs start at around $400 for preventative surgery. If your dog has to have a gastropexy because of bloat they are already experiencing, it's considered a medical emergency and you can expect fees in the range of $1200 all the way up to $5000 if complications arise.
$1,000 to $3,000 is a typical cost for the sophisticated imaging techniques required in these cases. Surgery is definitely a high-cost proposition in these cases. Individual surgical procedures themselves will typically cost anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000.
Dogs will also typically be kept crated for up to six weeks to prevent further damage, after which they may gradually return to normal activity.
Surgery is the easiest and most effective way to treat hematomas, though note that most will resolve on their own over time. The cost for most hematoma surgeries will be $100 or less, but price can be influenced by several factors.
How Much Does Dog Intestinal Blockage Surgery Cost? The cost to treat intestinal obstruction ranges anywhere from $800 to $7,000.
Costs start at around $400 for preventative surgery. If your dog has to have a gastropexy because of bloat they are already experiencing, it's considered a medical emergency and you can expect fees in the range of $1200 all the way up to $5000 if complications arise.
$1,000 to $3,000 is a typical cost for the sophisticated imaging techniques required in these cases. Surgery is definitely a high-cost proposition in these cases. Individual surgical procedures themselves will typically cost anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000.
There is quite a range in prices depending on what procedure is recommended by your veterinarian for your dog's knee repair and where you live. For example, a traditional repair can cost anywhere from $1000-2000+, whereas a TPLO surgery usually begins in the $2000 range.
$1,000 to $3,000 is a typical cost for the sophisticated imaging techniques required in these cases. Surgery is definitely a high-cost proposition in these cases. Individual surgical procedures themselves will typically cost anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000.
In severe cases of canine hip dysplasia, surgery is often the best treatment. Dog hip dysplasia surgery costs can range from $1,700 to $4,500+. Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis – A less invasive surgery that surgeons perform on dogs younger than five months old.
Typically, the procedure costs between $300 and $500, although it may be as much as $800 for surgical correction of both eyes. If you are concerned about the cherry eye cost, consult with a number of vets for estimates on the cost of the procedure.
Major surgery to remove a cancerous tumor deep inside the body, or that will require reconstruction, can start at $1,500. Chemotherapy treatments might range from $200 to $2,000, depending upon the type and severity of the cancer. Radiation therapy can range from $2,000 to $6,000 or higher.
Cost of Total Liver Lobectomy in Dogs. The average cost for a total liver lobectomy is around $9,000. If an ultrasound paired with chemotherapy or radiation therapy is chosen as a treatment due to lower cost, the bill drops to around $3,000, but survival rates are lowered.
There is quite a range in prices depending on what procedure is recommended by your veterinarian for your dog's knee repair and where you live. For example, a traditional repair can cost anywhere from $1000-2000+, whereas a TPLO surgery usually begins in the $2000 range.
Cost of Laparotomy in Dogs. The cost of exploratory surgery for dogs can vary wildly depending on your location, with most surgeries costing between $500 and $1,000.
Many dogs with mild cases of IVDD will regain feeling in their legs and walk again. Those that undergo surgery have the best chance of recovery if they are operated on soon after their initial diagnosis and can regain full function within three to six weeks after operation.
Chronic, malignant bowel obstruction. Surgery: The obstruction is removed to relieve pain and improve the patient's quality of life. Stent: A metal tube inserted into the intestine to open the area that is blocked. Gastrostomy tube: A tube inserted through the wall of the abdomen directly into the stomach.
Diode Laser (for glaucoma treatment) This procedure must be performed under general anesthesia for safety purposes. The cost is approximately $1,400 (one eye) to $1,800 (both eyes).
There is quite a range in prices depending on what procedure is recommended by your veterinarian for your dog's knee repair and where you live. For example, a traditional repair can cost anywhere from $1000-2000+, whereas a TPLO surgery usually begins in the $2000 range.
Cost of Surgery. Cost of this surgery is variable, depending on the size of your dog, the extent of the surgery and the rates of your veterinarian. A typical TPLO surgery will cost between $2500 and $3500.
There is quite a range in prices depending on what procedure is recommended by your veterinarian for your dog's knee repair and where you live. For example, a traditional repair can cost anywhere from $1000-2000+, whereas a TPLO surgery usually begins in the $2000 range.
The cost of a parathyroidectomy is generally quite high, ranging anywhere from $3,000 all the way up to over $10,000. The average cost for this procedure is about $8,000. A parathyroid tumor can not be left in a dog, as the dog will eventually die from hypercalcemia.
A standard course of chemotherapy costs between $3,000 and $5,000, and radiation treatments used for brain and nasal tumors run between $6,000 and $10,000. Costs vary by region and the type of cancer, among other factors.
How Much Does Dog Intestinal Blockage Surgery Cost? The cost to treat intestinal obstruction ranges anywhere from $800 to $7,000. The cost depends on how extensive the damage is, the length of his hospital stay, the types of medications required and other factors.
The cost of vertical ear canal ablation ranges from $500 to $2,000 depending on the cost of living in your area. This will include examination, anesthesia, procedure, postoperative medication, and follow-up.
There is quite a range in prices depending on what procedure is recommended by your veterinarian for your dog's knee repair and where you live. For example, a traditional repair can cost anywhere from $1000-2000+, whereas a TPLO surgery usually begins in the $2000 range.
Orthopedic surgery in dogs is costly and can cost pet owners from $100 to $3,000 to have performed. The total cost depends on the type of procedure your veterinarian is performing and the specific condition your dog is suffering from.
There is quite a range in prices depending on what procedure is recommended by your veterinarian for your dog's knee repair and where you live. For example, a traditional repair can cost anywhere from $1000-2000+, whereas a TPLO surgery usually begins in the $2000 range.
Laser lithotripsy is considered a specialist procedure and is only performed at certain facilities. The cost is approximately $800 - $1,200 for the procedure, not including sedation or anaesthetics. The additional expenses for sedation or anaesthesia are dependent on the protocol used and can be between $500 - $1000.
Hernia repair surgery can be expensive and price varies depending on the location of the hernia and the cost of living in your area. Hernia repair expenses range from $700 (for simple more common hernias) to $2,500 (more complex cases) with $1,600 being the average cost.
Once a patient with a cervical intervertebral disc herniation has been deemed a surgical candidate, the surgeon is faced with several options on how to operate. A general rule of thumb is to establish a goal of mass (disc) removal, as this is ultimately the decompressive element of surgery. A challenging decision comes when the herniated disc material is lateralized and residual material may remain in the intervertebral foramen without a carefully planned and executed approach. In these instances, it is not always clear which approach will best allow for spinal cord and nerve root decompression. Also challenging is the current lack of biomechanical studies comparing the instability created by these different approaches or the clinical significance of any such instability.
The ventral slot is one of the most widely used approaches for spinal cord decompression in veterinary patients with cervical intervertebral disc herniation. Using this procedure, it is very easy to access displaced disc material located within the ventral aspect of the vertebral canal (see Figure 30.1). This procedure was first described in dogs as an alternative to the dorsal approach for laminectomy or hemilaminectomy [1]. Either a ventral midline dissection or a paramedian dissection to the ventral cervical spine can be used. For the midline approach, a ventral midline incision is made and the approach is continued on the midline between the paired sternothyroideus and sternohyoideus muscles. The trachea, carotid sheath, and esophagus are retracted to the left to expose the paired longus colli muscles immediately ventral to the vertebrae [2]. For the paramedian approach, a ventral midline skin incision is made, but the dissection is continued paramedian, between the right sternocephalicus muscle and right sternothyroideus muscle [3]. The sternohyoideus and sternothyroideus muscles, trachea, esophagus, and carotid sheath are all retracted to the left. The paramedian approach may make it less likely to disrupt tracheal blood supply, the right carotid sheath, and the recurrent laryngeal nerve [3]. With either of these ventral approaches, the correct site for the ventral slot is identified by palpating the large transverse processes of C6 and the ventral midline process of C1 and then, using these landmarks, palpating the caudal ventral processes of the cervical vertebrae that mark each interspace between C2–C3 and C7–T1. It is important to review preoperative imaging to identify any anatomical variations in vertebral formula or transitional vertebrae. The longus colli muscle is divided along the midline to expose the ventral aspects of the vertebral bodies and intervertebral disc. A high-speed burr is used to create an opening (“slot”) in the vertebral bodies, centered over the disc space and extending to the dorsal longitudinal ligament. Due to the angulation of the intervertebral disc and end plates, the slot should be centered initially over the caudal aspect of the cranial vertebra rather than over the ventral annulus, with the caudal extent of the slot at the cranial end plate of the caudal vertebra. As the burring is continued dorsally, the slot will end up being centered on the dorsal aspect of the intervertebral disc. This will help avoid disruption of the paired vertebral venous plexus, which deviates laterally over each disc space, and thus reduce the risk for hemorrhage, which can be quite severe and interfere with completion of the disc removal and decompression. After penetrating the dorsal cortex of the vertebral body, the dorsal longitudinal ligament is separated or excised, and the herniated disc material is removed from the vertebral canal using instruments such as a right-angle nerve root retractor passed gently along the ventral aspect of the vertebral canal.
Complications of the ventral slot include hemorrhage from the vertebral venous plexus, instability of the vertebral bodies, erosion of the dorsal tracheal membrane from sutures in the longus colli, and poor decompression due to the limited visibility through the slot created [1, 4–7]. The reason the ventral approach is confined to a slot, and not a larger window that would permit more visualization and room for manipulation of instruments, is because of the potential for vertebral collapse and fracture from an overly aggressive degree of bone removal from the vertebral bodies. This is less a problem in human anterior approaches owing to the short but wide morphology of cervical vertebrae in that species, compared with the long but narrow cervical vertebrae in dogs. The small size of the resultant windows created in dogs, along with the small overall size of many veterinary patients, means that there is very little working room for either visualization or manipulation of instruments in our patients. So while the ventral approach provides the most direct route to ventrally herniated disc material, and without the degree of dissection required for dorsal approaches, it comes with the trade-off of very limited working space. The use of magnification and good lighting can mitigate some of these inherent limitations, but this remains one of the limiting aspects to this approach in dogs.
A dorsal approach to the cervical spine has been described and used for decompression of ventral disc displacements if there is a combined ventral disc displacement and dorsal compression (see Figure 30.2