Case presentation

Meet Kacperek, a 3.5-year-old Yorkshire Terrier who suffered a severe traumatic injury resulting in cervical spine damage and tetraplegia. The case was initially managed with intensive stabilization, pain control, and continuous monitoring following a life-threatening incident.

In case study Kacperek, diagnostic imaging revealed fractures of the occipital bone, displacement within the cervical spine, and significant spinal cord compression. Due to the high surgical risk, conservative management was chosen, focusing on stabilization and preventing further injury.

A WIMBA Cervical Collar was introduced as a critical part of the treatment plan to immobilize the neck and protect the spinal cord. Combined with consistent medical care and rehabilitation support, the patient gradually improved from complete immobility to independent movement.

Veterinarian’s Goals

The primary goal was to stabilize the cervical spine and prevent further spinal cord damage following severe traumatic injury. Given the extent of neurological impairment, preserving existing neurological function and avoiding additional compression or instability were critical priorities.

Additionally, the veterinarian aimed to enable safe handling, nursing, and rehabilitation while minimizing pain and secondary complications associated with immobility. Supporting gradual neurological recovery and creating conditions for potential return of mobility were key objectives of the treatment plan.

Medical Examination

Kacperek presented with severe post-traumatic neurological impairment following a crushing injury caused by a larger dog. On admission, he was in shock, apathetic, immobile, and showed marked neurological deficits, including forelimb opisthotonus, flaccid hind limbs, and episodic rigidity.

Neurological examination and advanced imaging confirmed extensive injuries involving both the skull and cervical spine. MRI revealed fracture of the occipital bone, cerebellar compression with edema, displacement of the odontoid process, cervical vertebral fractures, and spinal cord compression resulting in secondary myelopathy. Clinical findings included tetraplegia, absent postural reactions, loss of most spinal reflexes, and preserved deep pain sensation.

In addition to the neurological trauma, the patient showed systemic complications associated with severe injury and shock, including metabolic acidosis, elevated BUN and ALT, and gastrointestinal and urinary dysfunction. Due to the extent of the lesions and the high risk associated with surgery, the case study Kacperek was qualified for conservative stabilization and intensive supportive care.

Therapy and Results

The patient underwent intensive supportive treatment focused on stabilization, pain management, and prevention of further neurological damage. Due to the severity of cervical spine injuries and high surgical risk, a conservative approach was chosen.

To protect the cervical region and prevent additional spinal cord compression, a WIMBA Cervical Collar was introduced as a key element of the therapy. The device provided essential immobilization while allowing safe handling and ongoing medical care.

With consistent monitoring, rehabilitation support, and strict movement restriction, the patient showed gradual neurological improvement. Over time, Kacperek progressed from complete tetraplegia and inability to bear weight to regaining independent mobility.

This case study Kacperek highlights the critical role of proper cervical stabilization in managing severe spinal injuries and supporting functional recovery in high-risk neurological patients.

Feedback from WIMBA Providers

“Kacperek was presented in a critical condition following a severe neck trauma caused by a larger dog. MRI confirmed extensive injuries involving the occipital region and cervical spine, while neurological examination revealed tetraplegia with preserved deep pain sensation.
In such a challenging case, one of the key priorities was to provide proper cervical stabilization. The WIMBA Cervical Collar helped protect the neck, limit uncontrolled movement, and create safer conditions for ongoing treatment and rehabilitation. This allowed us to continue conservative management with greater confidence for both the patient and the caregiver.

Kacperek remains under close care, receiving laser therapy as well as anti-inflammatory and pain-management treatment. The WIMBA Cervical Collar has become an important part of the overall therapy, helping to protect the injured cervical region during daily handling and recovery. Combined with the exceptional dedication of his caregiver, we are now seeing gradual improvement and a return to greater independence.”

WIMBA Cervical Collar should be used according to the veterinarian’s medical recommendations; WIMBA is not responsible for misuse or any activities beyond veterinary guidance.