Histopathological changes in the spinal cord after Unilateral segmental vessel ligation: An experimental study [Tek Tarafli{dotless} Segmental Damar Baǧlanmasi{dotless}ni{dotless}n Omurilikte Oluşturduǧu Histopatolojik Deǧişiklikler: Deneysel Çali{dotless}şma]

Background: ligation of the segmental vessels is routinely used during the anterior approach to the thoracolumbar spine. there is still an ongoing discussion whether the ligation of the segmental arteries can cause damage to the spinal cord. this study aims to evaluate the alterations in the spinal cord after ligation of the segmental vessels,histopathologically. methods: eight female merino sheep were used. the segmental arteries of the thoracolumbar aorta were clipped,unilaterally,at three levels via left antero-lateral thoracotomy. animals were sacrificed after 3 days. spinal cord obtained from thoracolumbar and control cervical segments was examined histopathologically on the basis of ischemic changes and the number of blood vessels. results: slight ischemic changes were observed at the thoracolumbar levels. the number of blood vessels was decreased significantly at the thoracolumbar levels compared to control cervical levels. no animal developed neurological deficit. conclusion: unilateral ligation of segmental vessels at three levels leads pathologic changes in the the spinal cord that do not influence the neurologic function.