Intervertebral disk disease in dogs with signs of back pain alone: 25 cases (1986-1993)

Abstract

Objective - To evaluate the population characteristics; historical, clinical, and diagnostic findings; and treatment outcome of dogs with thoracolumbar intervertebral disk disease (IVDD) whose only clinical signs were those of back pain. Design - Retrospective case series. Animals - Dogs with IVDD and clinical signs of back pain only, without neurologic deficits, in which survey radiography of the vertebral column and diagnostic myelographic studies were performed. Procedure - Review of the medical record, evaluation of survey radiographs of the vertebral column, evaluation of myelograms and estimation of apparent extent of spinal cord compression, and follow-up information provided by telephone contact with owners. Results - Spinal cord compression was detected on myelography in 20 of 25 (80%) dogs. Treatment included decompressive surgery in 18 of 25 (72%) dogs and all dogs underwent intervertebral disk fenestration. The condition was improved in 24 of 25 (96%) dogs after surgery. Clinical Implications - Dogs with thoracolumbar IVDD that have clinical signs of back pain alone, without neurologic deficits, may have substantial compression of the spinal cord.