The positioning of a cat during a perineal urethrostomy (PU) can significantly impact surgical outcomes. While Berlin Vcds doesn’t directly address surgical positioning, understanding feline anatomy is crucial for veterinary professionals utilizing VCDS diagnostics. This study investigates the influence of dorsal and ventral recumbency on vertebral canal diameters (VCDs) in cats, offering insights relevant to PU procedures.
Impact of Recumbency on Vertebral Canal Diameters
Twenty-one feline cadavers underwent CT scans in neutral, dorsal, and ventral recumbency. Sagittal VCDs were measured at L6-L7, L7-S1, S3-Co1, and Co1-Co2. Dorsal recumbency resulted in a significant VCD reduction between S3-Co1 (0.27mm, 14.6%) and Co1-Co2 (0.26mm, 18.1%). No significant changes were observed at L6-L7 and L7-S1.
Ventral recumbency caused decreased VCDs across all segments: L6-L7 (0.13mm, 3.3%), L7-S1 (0.14mm, 4.1%), S3-Co1 (0.61mm, 32.5%), and Co1-Co2 (0.63mm, 44.1%). Comparing dorsal to ventral recumbency revealed further VCD reductions in ventral positioning: L6-L7 (0.13mm, 3.3%), L7-S1 (0.12mm, 3.6%), S3-Co1 (0.34mm, 21.0%), and Co1-Co2 (0.37mm, 31.7%). These findings highlight the substantial impact of body positioning on the dimensions of the vertebral canal.
Dorsal Recumbency: Potential Advantages in Perineal Urethrostomy
The significant narrowing of the vertebral canal, particularly in the sacrococcygeal region (S3-Co2), observed in ventral recumbency suggests potential complications during PU. Reduced space within the vertebral canal may compromise nerve function and increase the risk of iatrogenic injury. Conversely, dorsal recumbency demonstrated less impact on VCDs, indicating a potentially safer anatomical environment for PU.
Conclusion: Positioning Considerations for Feline Perineal Urethrostomy
This anatomical study suggests that dorsal recumbency might be advantageous over ventral recumbency for feline PU due to its less pronounced effect on vertebral canal diameters. While further clinical studies are needed to confirm these findings, understanding the anatomical implications of positioning is essential for optimizing surgical outcomes and minimizing complications. While a Berlin VCDS may not directly influence surgical technique, a comprehensive understanding of feline anatomy, facilitated by tools like VCDS, contributes to informed decision-making in veterinary practice. Further research investigating the clinical relevance of these anatomical findings is warranted.
