Multicenter results for C7-T1 ventral interbody fusion in horses using the kerf cut cylinder.
Authors: Janicek John C, Grant Barrie D, Woodie J Brett, Reed Steve M, Mariën Tom, Anderson Jonathan
Journal: Veterinary surgery : VS
Summary
# C7-T1 Ventral Interbody Fusion in Horses: Kerf Cut Cylinder Outcomes Cervical vertebral stenotic myelopathy at the C7-T1 junction presents significant anatomical challenges for surgical intervention, yet ventral interbody fusion using kerf cut cylinder (KCC) implants has emerged as a viable treatment option for horses with neurological compromise at this critical spinal location. This multicentre retrospective analysis reviewed 38 client-owned horses undergoing C7-T1 ventral interbody fusion between 2004 and 2024, documenting preoperative patient variables, intraoperative and anaesthetic complications, and long-term functional outcomes through owner and veterinary follow-up (median 48 months; range 3–144 months). Thirty horses (79%) achieved successful outcomes overall, with 19 horses (50%) returning to riding, training, or showing and 11 horses (29%) progressing to unrestricted paddock turnout or active rehabilitation with clinical improvement; 34 of 38 horses (89%) survived to discharge and remained alive beyond three months postoperatively. Laryngeal spasm represented the most frequent short-term complication, though the procedure remained associated with acceptable perioperative morbidity. These results reposition C7-T1 ventral interbody fusion as a definitive treatment rather than a salvage procedure, offering farriers, veterinarians, and equine rehabilitation professionals evidence that appropriately selected surgical candidates demonstrate favourable prognoses for functional recovery and return to work.
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Practical Takeaways
- •C7-T1 ventral interbody fusion using kerf cut cylinders is a viable treatment option with good prognosis for cervical myelopathy—not a salvage procedure
- •Nearly 80% of horses show successful long-term outcomes, with about half returning to work; set realistic owner expectations accordingly
- •Be prepared to manage laryngeal spasm as a common complication post-operatively; anatomical challenges at C7-T1 require experienced surgical teams
Key Findings
- •89% of 38 horses (34/38) were discharged and alive >3 months post-operatively
- •79% of horses (30/38) achieved successful outcomes with median 48-month follow-up
- •50% of horses (19/38) returned to riding, training, or showing; 29% (11/38) achieved unrestricted paddock turnout or improved clinical signs
- •Laryngeal spasm was the most common short-term complication, but overall morbidity was acceptable