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Peer-reviewed veterinary case report

Degenerative lumbosacral spine pain and treatment in dogs

By Meij, Björn P & Bergknut, Niklas·Published in The Veterinary clinics of North America. Small animal practice·2010·Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Netherlands·View original on PubMed

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Original publication title: Degenerative lumbosacral stenosis in dogs.

Species:
dog

Plain-English summary

A dog with degenerative lumbosacral stenosis (DLSS) often shows signs of pain in the lower back area, which can make it difficult for them to move comfortably. Advanced imaging techniques like CT and MRI help veterinarians see the exact issues, such as disc degeneration and nerve compression, allowing for personalized treatment plans. Treatment options include conservative management, surgery to relieve pressure, or fixing the spine in that area. With the right approach, many dogs can find relief from their pain and improve their mobility.

People also search for: dog back pain treatment · lumbosacral stenosis in dogs · dog surgery for back problems

Abstract

Degenerative lumbosacral stenosis (DLSS) is the most common disorder of the caudal lumbar spine in dogs. This article reviews the management of this disorder and highlights the most important new findings of the last decade. Dogs with DLSS are typically neuro-orthopedic patients and can be presented with varying clinical signs, of which the most consistent is lumbosacral pain. Due to the availability of advanced imaging techniques such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging that allow visualization of intervertebral disc degeneration, cauda equina compression, and nerve root entrapment, tailor-made treatments can be adopted for the individual patient. Current therapies include conservative treatment, decompressive surgery, and fixation-fusion of the L7-S1 junction. New insight into the biomechanics and pathobiology of DLSS and developments in minimally invasive surgical techniques will influence treatment options in the near future.

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Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20732601/