Degenerative lumbosacral stenosis in working dogs: current concepts and review.
Degenerative lumbosacral stenosis (DLSS) is characterised by intervertebral disc degeneration, with secondary bony and soft-tissue changes leading to compression of the cauda equina. Large-breed, active and working dogs are the most commonly affected by DLSS. Specific manipulative tests allow the clinician to form a high suspicion of DLSS, and initiate investigation. Changes seen using conventional radiography are unreliable, and although contrast radiography represents an improvement, advanced imaging is accepted as the diagnostic method of choice. Treatment involves decompression and/or stabilisation procedures in working dogs, although conservative management may be acceptable in pet dogs with mild signs. Prognosis for return to work is only fair, and there is a high rate of recurrence following conventional surgery. Stabilisation procedures are associated with the potential for failure of the implant, and their use has not gained universal acceptance. A new surgical procedure, dorsolateral foramenotomy, offers a potential advance in the management of DLSS. everal aspects of the pathogenesis, heritability and optimal treatment approach remain uncertain.
Worth
A J
AJ
Centre for Service and Working Dog Health and Research, Massey University Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand. a.j.worth@massey.ac.nz
Thompson
D J
DJ
Hartman
A C
AC
D000818:Animals; D002420:Cauda Equina / Q000503:physiopathology*; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy; D004285:Dogs; D055959:Intervertebral Disc Degeneration / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy / Q000662:veterinary*; D008161:Lumbosacral Region / Q000503:physiopathology*; D010523:Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy / Q000662:veterinary*; D011379:Prognosis; D011859:Radiography; D012307:Risk Factors; D013130:Spinal Stenosis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy / Q000662:veterinary*