Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Intervertebral disc disease is the most common disease of the spine in dogs and a main cause of pain and neurologic dysfunction. This article reviews fundamental aspects of the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of disc extrusions. Chondroid metaplasia of the nucleus pulposus is the central process in disc degeneration. The clinical presentation varies considerably depending on breed, the location of the disc extrusion and the degree of neurological damage. Advanced imaging techniques, such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, have greatly improved diagnosis, being magnetic resonance considered the gold standard. As for treatment, both medical and surgical management are effective options depending on the degree of neurological damage and the initial response to conservative treatment. This comprehensive analysis underlines the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to optimize the quality of life of patients affected by intervertebral disc disease.
Source: Pets
DOI: 10.3390/pets2030026
Authors: Ivan Gómez Álvarez, José Manuel Verdes García, Luciano Espino López
Institution: Universidad de la República de Uruguay
Language: English
Subfield: Small Animals
Field: Veterinary
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,207
OpenAlex ID: W4411498652