Effect of width of disk fenestration and a ventral slot on biomechanics of the canine C5-C6 vertebral motion unit.

Objective: To investigate the effects of disk fenestration and ventral slot formation on vertebral motion unit (VMU) range of motion (ROM) and determine the effects of fenestration and ventral slot width on VMU ROM.

Sample Population: C5-C6 VMUs from 10 skeletally mature canine cadavers.

Procedures: Specimens were assigned to 2 groups (5 specimens/group).