February 06, 2026
Southern Counties Veterinary Specialists has delivered a transformative surgery using 3D-print guides after Eevee the dog suffered extreme neck pain.
Seven-year-old miniature schnauzer Eevee was experiencing immense pain, with owners Sarah and Neil unable to touch her neck. Despite various rounds of medication and physiotherapy, the dog’s neck pain continued over 18 months, and nothing proved successful.
Searching for answers, Sarah and Neil consulted SCVS Vets and their case was accepted. They soon made their first trip to Hampshire for Eevee’s initial assessment.
The Hampshire-based multidisciplinary referral centre boasts advanced facilities and teams of specialist vets designed to take on complex cases from across the UK.
After conducting a neurological examination and an MRI scan, the team discovered Eevee’s underlying condition.
Eevee was diagnosed with chronic C1–C2 instability – a severe condition in the dog’s upper neck responsible for her significant pain.
The team also identified a fluid-filled arachnoid cyst that was pressing on the dog's spine, causing inflammation and additional pain when walking. Vets concluded that the abnormality in Eevee’s neck likely contributed to the cyst formation.
Ultimately, Eevee required complex surgery to prevent future pain and protect her spine.
The first step was to stabilise the neck before draining the arachnoid cyst. To ensure accurate positioning, the team printed custom 3-D drill guides using Eevee’s CT data.
“It was a very delicate procedure where we had to operate to place screws between two of the vertebrae in the spine,” said Francesca Raimondi, Head of Neurology at SCVS Vets. “Every millimetre is critical and if you get it wrong there can be very serious consequences.”
Afterward, the team created an incision to drain the dog’s cyst and placed titanium mesh to prevent scar tissue forming.
Although the surgery was extensive, the outcome was remarkable as Eevee’s neck and head mobility swiftly returned to normal.
“Eevee recovered well and was left pain-free, comfortable and able to move and shake her head without any sign of discomfort,” added Francesca. “She is now enjoying an excellent quality of life.”
Owners Sarah and Neil were thrilled and shared their relief: “We can’t thank SCVS Vets enough. They gave us so much confidence that they could help from the very first time we spoke with them.”
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