Wilma is affected by a developmental condition associated with lack of proper ligament formation between the first two cervical vertebrae in her neck, which are called the atlas (on which the skull sits) and the axis (on which the head rotates).
The axis has a spike of bone sticking out of the front of it called the dens – and this is sticking into her spinal cord, causing her to regularly collapse and scream out in pain.
A trip to meet Noel gives her family all of the surgical options available. Noel and his engineering team have developed an implant unique to Fitzpatrick Referrals, which is called a FitzAASS – Atlanto-Axial Stabilisation System. This implant aims to fuse the atlas and the axis together preventing the spinal cord from being squashed and thus providing a chance for Wilma to live a normal pain-free life.
It’s certainly not smooth sailing during this incredibly complex procedure, but Noel and his team apply this game-changing technology to do all they can to give Wilma the best chance possible at making it to that beach in Jersey.
Behind the scenes
Watch Wilma’s story on Supervet ER
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