BONY AND VASCULAR ANATOMY OF THE NORMAL CERVICAL-SPINE IN THE SHEEP

Study Design. This study analyzed the vascular and skeletal anatomy of the sheep cervical spine. It discusses comparative anatomy of the cer vical spine of sheep and humans. Objectives. To establish the suitabil ity of the sheep model for studying the pathophysiology of traumatic a nd degenerative conditions of the cervical spine.Summary of Background Data. Many studies have attempted to evaluate the pathophysiology of spinal cord trauma, hypoxia, and variations in the local environment o f the spinal cord using a variety of animal models. Few of the studies identified in an extensive literature review report or comment on the validity:of these models regarding anatomy. Methods. Techniques of ma cro- and micro-dissection and vascular casting with latex and methyl-m ethacrylate were emplpyed and the anatomy. of sheep was compared with that of humans. Results. On an anatomical basis, we found the sheep to be a suitable model for studying the pathophysiology of spinal cord t rauma and disorders relative to humans. Conclusions. To properly asses s the effect of various pathological processes on the spinal cord, an anatomically valid model is required. This study established that the sheep is a suitable animal model for studies of this type.