Spinal injuries can be an emergency and your pet should be assessed by a veterinarian if you have concerns of a spinal injury. In veterinary medicine, the most common spinal injuries involve Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) and Spinal Fractures.
At Colyton Veterinary Hospital surgery can be performed on site by our experienced vets with advanced anaesthetic monitoring. Equally as important, a comprehensive rehabilitation/physiotherapy after care plan will be tailored to your pet.
Neurology Service:
Surgical and Medical Treatment of Intervertebral Disc Disease
Decompressive Surgery – laminectomy surgery, ventral slot
Spinal Fractures/Stabilisation – pedicle screws and PMMA/wire
Epidural steroid injections
Intervertebral Disc Disease
IVDD is a result of degeneration of the intervertebral disc that can occur at an early age. It is common in chondrodystrophic dogs such as the dachshund, french bull dog and beagle. Signs of IVDD may include back pain, weakness of the legs and paralysis of one or more legs. Some patients may also be incontinent and have trouble toileting.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is done simply by starting off with a physical exam and neurological exam. However, advanced imaging is ALWAYS required for a definite answer. In majority of cases a CT scan is performed however, other scans may be required. Your veterinarian will guide you on the most important tests. The CT scan allows us to be confident of the disease and also to plan for surgery.
Treatment
NOT ALL spinal injuries require surgery. Some patients may need conservative/medical management combined with rehabilitation. However, patients with deficits that affect there ability to walk or feel their legs may require surgery. The risks of surgery will always be discussed with you however, this will vary from patient to patient.
If you have any questions please contact (02) 9673 1106 for more information. A cost estimate can be provided over the phone.