Biomechanical evaluation of four surgical techniques for ventral stabilization of the atlantoaxial joint in dogs.

Purpose: This study compared, through biomechanical evaluation under ventral flexion load, four surgical techniques for ventral stabilization of the atlantoaxial joint in dogs.

Methods: In total, 28 identical atlantoaxial joint models were created by digital printing from computed tomography images of a dog, and the specimens were divided into four groups of seven. In each group, a different technique for ventral stabilization of the atlantoaxial joint was performed: transarticular lag screws, polyaxial screws, multiple screws and bone cement (polymethylmethacrylate-PMMA), and atlantoaxial plate.

DOUBLE PLATING FOR FRACTURES IN GIANT ANTEATERS ().

The fixation of fractures in wild animals has been a great challenge for veterinarians, because they will inevitably face a unique anatomical characteristic with scarce studies or reports published. Fracture fixation should promote adequate stability and early return to limb function, taking into account biomechanical characteristics of the bones, body weight, and natural habits of wildlife. Three bone fractures from two giant anteaters () referred at the veterinary teaching hospital on different occasions were treated by a double plating technique.