Intervertebral Disk Disease

Anatomy of the disk and spinal cord. (Image source)

Intervertebral Disk Disease is a broad term referring to a disorder in the spinal column. This condition is most commonly seen in short leg long backed dogs. (Think dachshund, basset hound, shih tzu, and Pekinese breeds.)

 

Good advice for any breed! (Image Source)

Typical presentation for this condition is acute pain. Many patients will seem uncomfortable when laying down or have difficulty using their back legs. They may also have a hard time navigating stairs or refuse to jump when they normally would. The pain can be anywhere along the spinal column. It comes from the disk being inflamed and pushing on the spinal cord. Depending on the degree of inflammation this pressure puts on the spinal cord, it could lead to temporary or permanent paralysis.

 

X-ray with special dye showing compression of spinal cord (Image Source)

In mild cases radiographs (x-rays), can be used to show if there are boney changes along the vertebrae. These can typically be managed with strict cage rest and medications. These medications will include those to decrease inflammation, pain and possibly muscle relaxation. The most important aspect of treatment however is CAGE REST. With constant motion, inflammation will continue and could lead to permanent damage. In more severe cases referral to a specialty clinic may be necessary. Here they may look at advanced imaging such as a CT scan or an MRI. This will help them pin point the lesion and proceed with surgery if necessary.

 

Typically surgery will require a very large incision! (Image Source)

Surgical intervention is used in very advanced cases. Typically a portion of the vertebrae is removed to relieve some of the pressure placed on the spinal cord. Surgery is used to alleviate pain but also hopefully preserve limb function, if we intervene quickly enough. In some cases their limbs may never function normally again. They may need help moving and this is where carts may be necessary.

 

Many dogs in carts can lead happy lives! (Image Source)

Getting your pet into the vet at the first sign of illness may help minimize their risk for more advanced disease. It will also help make them more comfortable. For more information on this condition please view the following website here.