D‘Avino, Caterina (2025). Investigation on the diagnostical value of the dorsal compression index (DCI) in small breed dogs with and without Atlantoaxial Instability. (Thesis). Universität Bern, Bern

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Abstract

Dorsal compressive lesions (DCLs) at the atlantoaxial junction are described in toy and small-breed dogs, but their relationship to Atlantoaxial Instability (AAI) remains unclear. This retrospective matched case–control study evaluated 26 dogs (13 AAI, 13 controls) matched for breed/weight, MRI system, and head–neck position (HNP). On sagittal T2-weighted MR images, the dorsal compression index (DCI) and the ventral compression index (VCI) and corresponding angular indices were measured and compared. Groups did not differ in age, sex, HNP, or dorsal atlantodental interval (DADI). VCI and ventral atlantodental interval (VADI) were significantly higher in AAI (VCI p≤0.01; VADI p=0.02), including the toy-breed-only analysis (VCI p=0.03). In contrast, the DCI did not differ between AAI and controls overall or within toy breeds (all p>0.4). STIR hyperintensity within the posterior ligamentous complex (PLC) was more prevalent than post-contrast enhancement, although measurability was limited. DCLs quantified by DCI are not associated with AAI, whereas VCI robustly discriminates AAI even when positioning is matched; DCI seems not to be associated with AAI, although documenting dorsal lesions may aid case description and surgical planning.

Item Type:	Thesis
Dissertation Type:	Single
Date of Defense:	5 September 2025
Subjects:	500 Science > 590 Animals (Zoology) 600 Technology > 610 Medicine & health
Institute / Center:	05 Veterinary Medicine > Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine (DKV)
Depositing User:	Hammer Igor
Date Deposited:	23 Dec 2025 14:50
Last Modified:	23 Dec 2025 14:50
URI:	https://boristheses.unibe.ch/id/eprint/7007

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