April Featured Patient:
Meet "Cisco" Seda

"Cisco" is a 2 year old Miniature Pinscher who was referred to Veterinary Specialists of South Florida after suffering a spinal injury earlier that day. He had been run over by a bicyclist and had lost his ability to walk immediately after the accident. When his local veterinarian saw the seriousness of Cisco's injuries, he requested a neurosurgical consult with Dr. James Cook.

When Cisco arrived at our hospital he was unable to use his back legs. X-rays of his spine revealed that his back had been broken and the vertebrae were severely displaced (see photo). Despite the injury Cisco could still feel his rear feet and even move his rear legs slightly, and Dr. Cook believed that Cisco had a good chance of recovery if his spine was aligned and stabilized. In surgery, his bones were re-aligned back into their normal position and stabilized using pins and wires. Cisco was a tough and determined little guy and was able to start walking and controlling his body functions within 3 days! Since he was doing so well he was sent home so that his owners could provide the necessary nursing care in the comfort of his own home.

Cisco has returned periodically to check on his progress and ensure that the spinal stabilization remains intact. He has resumed normal activity and less than 3 months after surgery has made a full recovery!

Dr. James Cook
Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (Neurology)

11/02 "Summer" Van Osdale