Age-related change in shear elastic modulus of the thoracolumbar multifdus muscle in healthy Beagle dogs using ultrasound shear wave elastography

Abstract

Background: Multifdus muscle stifness decreases in patients with lumbar intervertebral disk herniation; however, age-related changes in humans have not been reported. Objectives: The reliability of ultrasound shear wave elastography in dogs, and changes in the shear elastic modulus of the thoracolumbar multifdus muscle with aging in dogs, were investigated. Methods: Twelve beagle dogs were divided into 2 groups based on the age of onset of intervertebral disk herniation: young (aged not exceeding 2 years; 1.3 ± 0.6 years old, n = 5) and adult (4.9 ± 1.2 years old, n = 7). The shear elastic modulus of the multifdus muscle, from the thirteenth thoracic spine to the fourth lumbar spine, was measured using ultrasound shear wave elastography. The length, cross-sectional area and muscle to fat ratio of the multifdus muscle, and the grade of intervertebral disk degeneration, were assessed using radiographic and magnetic resonance imaging examinations. Results: The length and cross-sectional area of the multifdus muscle increased caudally In the young group, the shear elastic modulus of the multifdus muscle of the thirteenth thoracic spine was less than that of the third lumbar spine. In the adult group, the shear elastic modulus of the multifdus muscle of frst and third lumbar spine was lower than that of the same site in the young group. Conclusions: Ultrasound can be used to measure shear wave elastography of the thoracolumbar multifdus in dogs. If the multifdus muscle stifness decreases, we should consider age-related change.