Dorsal midline approach to the equine dorsal spinous process

With the patient in either lateral recumbency,

or standing,

the longitudinal surgical approach is carried out along the midline to gain access to the affected dorsal spinous process(es).

Radiographic markers like staples are used to define the precise location injured vertebrae.

The dorsal spinous process of the involved vertebra is isolated through blunt and sharp dissection, and resected using either an oscillating saw or an osteotome.