犬の椎間板ヘルニア（IVDD）
椎間板ヘルニアは犬の背痛み、脱力、麻痺の一般的な原因です。最良の結果のためには早期治療が不可欠です。
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) occurs when the cushioning discs between vertebrae degenerate, bulge, or rupture into the spinal canal. This compresses the spinal cord, causing pain, weakness, and paralysis. IVDD is especially common in chondrodystrophic (short-legged) breeds. RVC provides emergency and surgical management. Call +853 6677 6611.
- IVDD is degeneration of the discs between spinal vertebrae
- Chondrodystrophic breeds (Dachshunds, Shih Tzus, Pekingese) are at highest risk
- Symptoms range from back pain to complete paralysis
- Early surgical intervention offers the best chance of recovery
- Dogs that lose deep pain sensation need emergency surgery within 24 hours
- Conservative management may be appropriate for mild cases
Types of IVDD
Hansen Type I: acute rupture of a degenerated disc, common in chondrodystrophic breeds (Dachshund, Beagle, Shih Tzu, Pekingese, Corgi). The disc extrudes into the spinal canal suddenly, causing acute symptoms. Usually occurs in young to middle-aged dogs (3-6 years). Hansen Type II: gradual protrusion of a disc, more common in non-chondrodystrophic breeds (German Shepherd, Labrador). Disc material slowly pushes into the canal, causing progressive symptoms. Usually occurs in older dogs (8+ years).
Symptoms and Grading
Grade 1: Pain only — back or neck pain, reluctant to move, crying when picked up. Grade 2: Ambulatory paraparesis — weak, wobbly back legs but can walk. Grade 3: Non-ambulatory paraparesis — can't stand or walk, but still has leg movement. Grade 4: Paraplegia — no leg movement, but still has deep pain sensation. Grade 5: Paraplegia with no deep pain — the most severe, requires emergency surgery within 12-24 hours for any chance of recovery.
Diagnosis
Physical and neurologic examination localizes the lesion to a region of the spine. X-rays may show disc space narrowing or calcified discs but cannot definitively diagnose spinal cord compression. Advanced imaging is required: MRI (gold standard — shows soft tissue detail), CT with myelogram (contrast dye in spinal canal), or myelogram alone. These are essential for surgical planning. Blood tests rule out other causes of weakness.
Treatment Options
Conservative management (Grades 1-2): strict crate rest for 4-8 weeks, pain medications, anti-inflammatories, and muscle relaxants. Success rate is good for mild cases but recurrence is common. Surgery (hemilaminectomy or ventral slot): removes the disc material compressing the spinal cord. Best outcomes when performed early, especially before deep pain is lost. Success rate: 80-95% return to ambulation if deep pain is present; drops to 50% or less if deep pain is absent. Post-surgery: bladder management, physical therapy, and gradual return to activity.
- Sudden back or neck pain, especially in a predisposed breed
- Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or move
- Weakness or wobbliness in the hind legs
- Dragging hind feet or knuckling
- Inability to walk or stand
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- ANY paralysis — this is an emergency
RVC
IVDD is a time-sensitive emergency. RVC provides urgent assessment and referral for MRI and surgery. Call +853 6677 6611 immediately if you suspect IVDD.
+853 6677 6611