CCAT Neurological Condition Rehabilitation 5

Question 1

Which reflex is used to evaluate the integrity of the L4-L6 spinal cord segments in the dog?

Accepted Answer

Patellar (quadriceps) reflex

Answer

The patellar reflex tests the femoral nerve and L4-L6 spinal cord segments, making it a key indicator of lumbosacral upper vs. lower motor neuron lesion localization.

Question 2

A dog with a C1-C5 lesion is expected to show which combination of neurological signs?

Accepted Answer

UMN tetraparesis or tetraplegia with possible neck pain

Answer

A C1-C5 lesion produces UMN signs in all four limbs with possible cervical pain, since the lesion is cranial to the brachial intumescence.

Question 3

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) applied to the spinal cord injury site is theorized to promote neurological recovery primarily through which mechanism?

Accepted Answer

Photobiomodulation enhancing mitochondrial function and reducing inflammation

Answer

LLLT promotes photobiomodulation, which enhances cellular ATP production, reduces oxidative stress, and modulates the inflammatory response to support tissue healing.

Question 4

Which bladder management strategy is MOST appropriate in the immediate post-operative period for a dog with urinary retention following thoracolumbar disc surgery?

Accepted Answer

Express the bladder manually or via intermittent catheterization every 6-8 hours

Answer

Manual bladder expression or intermittent catheterization prevents overdistension injury while maintaining bladder health until voluntary voiding returns.

Question 5

Which patient characteristic most significantly influences the prognosis for recovery of ambulation following complete loss of deep pain perception after spinal cord injury?

Accepted Answer

The duration of loss of deep pain perception prior to decompressive surgery

Answer

Duration of loss of DPP is the single most important prognostic indicator; patients decompressed within 24-48 hours of DPP loss have significantly better outcomes.

CCAT Practice Test

CCAT Practice Test

CCAT Neurological Condition Rehabilitation 5