Prevalence of lumbosacral transitional vertebrae and association with hip dysplasia in Rhodesian Ridgebacks in Germany
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Congenital anomalies affecting the spinal column are frequently observed incertain dog breeds. One such condition occurs atthe junction between the lower back and the sacrum, where vertebrae exhibit mixed structural characteristics. This retrospective study analysed imaging records ofRhodesian Ridgebacks collected over 28years, selecting only those that met strict positioning standards for evaluation. Atotal of2012 cases were analysed using established classification methods, identifying three distinct structural variations: atypical junction, abilaterally altered morphology, and anasymmetrical form affecting one side. The prevalence ofthese variations was 7.4%, with symmetrical alterations found in5% ofcases and asymmetrical alterations in2.4%. Statistical analysis did not reveal asignificant association between these anatomical variations and canine hip dysplasia (CHD) (P=0.1700). These findings support previous research indicating that there is no direct link between these structural variations and joint disorders in this breed. The study represents the most extensive investigation of its kind in this canine population, highlighting that such vertebral variations are frequently observed in routine radiographic screenings, but despite decades of research, consistent clinical correlations remain elusive – underscoring the need for further systematic investigation.
Source: Veterinární Medicína
Authors: SK Slunsky, P Slunsky, E Fort, L Brunnberg
Language: English
Subfield: Small Animals
Field: Veterinary
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $609
OpenAlex ID: W4415657002