IVDD, or intervertebral disc disease, usually means that part of a spinal disc (or several) pushes its way into the spinal canal and presses against the spinal cord. Symptoms vary with the location, the onset of the problem (sudden versus slow or gradual) and the severity of the impact to the spinal cord. Some symptoms include not wanting to eat, a tight or tense abdomen, crying or yelping when moving or picked up, a reluctance to go up or down stairs, a reluctance to jump or go for a walk, an arched back, shaking or trembling, weak (wobbly) legs or knuckling of the paws. In extreme cases, the dog will lose function and may only be able to drag the hind limbs. If the next is affected, the dog will often hold the head down when walking, have muscle spasms in the neck, and cry out in pain when moved. The longer the duration of the compression, the more severe the signs because of inflammation and reduced blood supply to the spinal cord. (Adapted from ACVIM Fact Sheet: Intervertebral Disc Disease in Dogs)
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Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
What is an intervertebral disc?
{Click here for Article from Veterinary surgical Centers)
Critical Info
*** CRITICAL INFORMATION ***
IVDD is not always, but can be, a life-threatening condition. It is a TIME CRITICAL situation! |
IVDD in Detail
Being seen by a Neurologist in a timely manner is critical: This is the important step when evaluating patients that are dragging the back legs! Watch the full version of Dr. De Pompa’s "Approach to Common Neurologic Emergencies" webinar on YouTube! |
IVDD in the
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what to expect
The following is based on the collective experience of our group members:
Diagnosis
Although clinical examinations and X-rays can reveal findings that point to IVDD, only an MRI can definitively yield an IVDD diagnosis. This is because the MRI allows the vet to see the soft tissues of the intervertebral discs and the spinal cord itself, thereby confirming how the disc is pressing into the spinal cord. If the dog is unable to walk unassisted, an MRI will be recommended immediately. In cases where the dog has suspected low back or hind end pain but still walks well, an X-ray may be suggested as the first step since it is more widely available and much more affordable. Veterinary MRI’s are only available through specialty practices and universities, so depending where you live, you may have to travel for this test. We recommend that you ask for a copy of your images on disk and a copy of the MRI report.
Costs
Costs for testing and surgery vary based on severity and location. Generally, we have found that an MRI will cost roughly $2,000, while IVDD surgery typically ranges from roughly $4,000 to $6,000. Rehabilitation [insert text with range of information]. Many veterinary practices will request a significant deposit or full payment UP FRONT. Even with pet insurance – which we recommend – you will often have to pay the upfront cost and wait for reimbursement.
Time table
Results from an MRI are typically available same-day.
Surgery may be scheduled or done on an emergency basis, depending on the case.
Recovery typically consists of several weeks of crate rest, followed by several more weeks of gradually increasing activity and/or rehabilitative therapy. The more severe the impact to the spinal cord, the longer the recovery will be. Expect a minimum of 12 weeks before returning to normal activity. In cases with partial or full paralysis, expect a range of [insert time frame]. Some dogs may never fully regain the function they had prior.
Life after IVDD
Again, this will vary greatly depending on the severity of the dog’s condition. In less severe cases, dogs are able to hunt and train as they did before. Some are able to resume activity but have periodic episodes when they appear to be in pain and need crate rest and pain medication for a time. Others need to limit their activity to prevent further injury and/or have permanently impaired function that must be managed. Ask your veterinary neurologist about the most likely outcome and lifestyle for your dog, based on its individual case.
Check out a few of our stories to get a better understanding of life with and after IVDD. And after you do, feel free to reach out with any questions you have: care@boykinivdd.com
Diagnosis
Although clinical examinations and X-rays can reveal findings that point to IVDD, only an MRI can definitively yield an IVDD diagnosis. This is because the MRI allows the vet to see the soft tissues of the intervertebral discs and the spinal cord itself, thereby confirming how the disc is pressing into the spinal cord. If the dog is unable to walk unassisted, an MRI will be recommended immediately. In cases where the dog has suspected low back or hind end pain but still walks well, an X-ray may be suggested as the first step since it is more widely available and much more affordable. Veterinary MRI’s are only available through specialty practices and universities, so depending where you live, you may have to travel for this test. We recommend that you ask for a copy of your images on disk and a copy of the MRI report.
Costs
Costs for testing and surgery vary based on severity and location. Generally, we have found that an MRI will cost roughly $2,000, while IVDD surgery typically ranges from roughly $4,000 to $6,000. Rehabilitation [insert text with range of information]. Many veterinary practices will request a significant deposit or full payment UP FRONT. Even with pet insurance – which we recommend – you will often have to pay the upfront cost and wait for reimbursement.
Time table
Results from an MRI are typically available same-day.
Surgery may be scheduled or done on an emergency basis, depending on the case.
Recovery typically consists of several weeks of crate rest, followed by several more weeks of gradually increasing activity and/or rehabilitative therapy. The more severe the impact to the spinal cord, the longer the recovery will be. Expect a minimum of 12 weeks before returning to normal activity. In cases with partial or full paralysis, expect a range of [insert time frame]. Some dogs may never fully regain the function they had prior.
Life after IVDD
Again, this will vary greatly depending on the severity of the dog’s condition. In less severe cases, dogs are able to hunt and train as they did before. Some are able to resume activity but have periodic episodes when they appear to be in pain and need crate rest and pain medication for a time. Others need to limit their activity to prevent further injury and/or have permanently impaired function that must be managed. Ask your veterinary neurologist about the most likely outcome and lifestyle for your dog, based on its individual case.
Check out a few of our stories to get a better understanding of life with and after IVDD. And after you do, feel free to reach out with any questions you have: care@boykinivdd.com