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Tammi L. Ruddle, D. A. Allen, E. R. Schertel, M. D. Barnhart, E. R. Wilson, J. A. Lineberger, N. W. Klocke, T. W. Lehenbauer
Outcome and prognostic factors in nonambulatory Hansen Type I intervertebral disc extrusions: 308 cases
Keywords: Intervertebral disc herniation, time to ambulation, dogs
Thoracolumbar intervertebral disc disease is the mostcommon cause of caudal paresis in dogs (1). Whilst thepathogenesis of the extrusion has been widely studied,treatment protocols and prognostic factors relating tooutcome remain controversial. Recent studies haveexamined a multitude of factors relating to time to regainambulation after decompressive surgery. Most intervertebraldisc herniations occur in the thoracolumbarregion, causing upper motor neuron signs in the rearlimbs, which are thought to have a more favourableprognosis compared to the lower motor neuron signscreated by herniation of an intervertebral disc in thecaudal lumbar region. Due to the potential disruptionof the lumbar intumescence, lower motor neuron signshave been reported as having a less favourable prognosis.The purpose of this study was to evaluate the intervertebraldisc space as a prognostic factor relating toambulatory outcome and time to ambulation after decompressivesurgery. Hansen Type I intervertebral discextrusions were studied in 308 non-ambulatory dogs.Preoperative and postoperative neurological status, corticosteroiduse, signalment, intervertebral disc space,postoperative physical rehabilitation, previous hemilaminectomysurgery, disc fenestration, return to ambulation,and time to ambulation were reviewed.
Veterinary and Comparative Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Schattauer
Print ISSN: 0932-0814
Volume: 19
Pages: 29 - 34