Complications in small animal spinal surgery: identification, prognosis, prevention, and management strategies

Document Type : Review article

Authors
Saeed Farzad-Mohajeri
Helia Sepahvand
Mohammad Amin Saeedi
Department of Surgery and Diagnostic Imaging, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
10.61882/eltiamj.12.1.7
Abstract
Background: Small animal spinal surgery is a critical intervention performed to treat a variety of conditions, including spinal trauma, intervertebral disk disease (IVDD), neoplasia, and congenital abnormalities. Neurological, infectious, mechanical, and systemic problems and complications are inherent to this process and can impact the patient's recovery and quality of life.
Objective: This review aims to provide a comprehensive list of risks associated with spinal surgery in small animals, rank them by severity, assess their prognosis, and cover prevention and management methods for these risks based on available information.
Methodology: This article integrates data from retrospective and prospective veterinary studies, surgical outcome reports, and clinical case analyses. Various types of complications can occur at different times during this procedure and can be classified as neurological, infectious, mechanical/structural, or systemic. This study includes management techniques, diagnostic methods, and preventive measures.
Results: The most common side effects include decreased neurological function, surgical site infection, aspiration pneumonia, and implant-related complications. The patient's neurological status before surgery, including the presence of deep pain sensation and the timing of surgical intervention, is an important prognostic factor. Reducing complications and improving outcomes are both achievable through advanced imaging, early physiotherapy, sterile surgical techniques, and postoperative monitoring.
Conclusion: A preventative and interdisciplinary approach is essential for improving surgical outcomes in small animal spinal surgery. The key to reducing problems and increasing the chances of recovery is implementing appropriate interventions, which can be achieved through accurate and rapid diagnosis, comprehensive pre- and post-operative care, and long-term rehabilitation planning.

Keywords

Subjects

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Eltiam
Volume 12, Issue 1 - Serial Number 23
November 2025
Pages 109-127

  • Receive Date 01 November 2025
  • Accept Date 02 November 2025
  • Publish Date 22 November 2025