Summary
Thoracolumbar intervertebral disc disease is the most common cause of caudal paresis
in dogs (1). Whilst the pathogenesis of the extrusion has been widely studied, treatment
protocols and prognostic factors relating to outcome remain controversial. Recent
studies have examined a multitude of factors relating to time to regain ambulation
after decompressive surgery. Most intervertebral disc herniations occur in the thoracolumbar
region, causing upper motor neuron signs in the rear limbs, which are thought to have
a more favourable prognosis compared to the lower motor neuron signs created by herniation
of an intervertebral disc in the caudal lumbar region. Due to the potential disruption
of the lumbar intumescence, lower motor neuron signs have been reported as having
a less favourable prognosis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the intervertebral
disc space as a prognostic factor relating to ambulatory outcome and time to ambulation
after decompressive surgery. Hansen Type I intervertebral disc extrusions were studied
in 308 non-ambulatory dogs. Preoperative and postoperative neurological status, corticosteroid
use, signalment, intervertebral disc space, postoperative physical rehabilitation,
previous hemilaminectomy surgery, disc fenestration, return to ambulation, and time
to ambulation were reviewed.
Keywords
Intervertebral disc herniation - time to ambulation - dogs
