## Overview Vertebral fracture is a break in a spinal bone from trauma or severe stress. It can compromise the spinal cord, causing acute ataxia, recumbency, or paralysis caudal to the lesion. Back or neck pain is common. Prognosis depends on the degree of cord damage. ## Causes Trauma. ## Diagnosis Neurologic examination and radiographs or advanced imaging. ## Treatment Stabilization and supportive care. Surgery in selected cases. Severe cord damage usually leads to euthanasia. ## Recovery and Prognosis Variable. Mild fractures without cord injury can heal. Complete cord transection is fatal. ## Prevention Trauma avoidance.
acute onset ataxia or recumbency; back or neck pain; neurologic deficits
## Overview Vertebral fracture is a break in a spinal bone from trauma or severe stress. It can compromise the spinal cord, causing acute ataxia, recumbency, or paralysis caudal to the lesion. Back or neck pain is common. Prognosis depends on the degree of cord damage. ## Causes Trauma. ## Diagnosis Neurologic examination and radiographs or advanced imaging. ## Treatment Stabilization and supportive care. Surgery in selected cases. Severe cord damage usually leads to euthanasia. ## Recovery and Prognosis Variable. Mild fractures without cord injury can heal. Complete cord transection is fatal. ## Prevention Trauma avoidance.
acute onset ataxia or recumbency; back or neck pain; neurologic deficits