MorMeow
← Back to Graphภาษาไทย
Condition7 connections · 1 source

Hemivertebrae

A congenital spinal deformity where vertebral bodies fuse asymmetrically, creating a wedge-shaped bone instead of a normal cylindrical block. It is frequently observed in certain dog breeds and ranges from a cosmetic tail curl to a serious neurological issue.

Key Facts

  • Hemivertebrae are present at birth due to abnormal vertebral development during gestation.
  • The condition frequently affects brachycephalic breeds like English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers.
  • Most cases are incidental radiographic findings that do not cause clinical symptoms.
  • When located in the mid-back, the wedged vertebrae can twist the spine and compress the spinal cord.
  • Clinical signs typically stabilize around nine months of age when vertebral growth ceases.

Connections (7)

Related Conditions

Spinal Cord CompressionCondition

Severe hemivertebrae can cause abnormal spinal curvature that directly compresses the spinal cord.

Symptoms

Rear Limb WeaknessSymptom

Hemivertebrae in the mid-back are a known congenital cause of this symptom.

Treatments

Spinal Stabilization SurgeryTreatment

Performed in severe cases where congenital vertebral deformities cause significant spinal cord compromise.

Medications

Corticosteroid TherapyMedication

Used as a conservative management strategy when vertebral deformities cause mild, non-surgical neurological signs.

Diagnostics

Advanced Spinal ImagingDiagnostic

Used to assess whether congenital vertebral deformities are causing secondary spinal cord damage.

RadiographyDiagnostic

X-rays are the primary initial imaging modality used to identify hemivertebrae.

Body Systems

Thoracic SpineBody System

The eighth thoracic vertebra is the most common location for clinically significant hemivertebrae.

Source Articles (1)

Hemivertebrae Are Congenitally Deformed Vertebra In Dogs And Cats

Backlinks (1)

Orthopedic

← Explore the full knowledge graph