Why IVDD Surgery Is Recommended? Types Of IVDD Surgeries In Pets & Success Ratio

As pet owners, we think of our animals as more than just animals. They are our friends, people we can value, and members of our family. We cherish their love, loyalty, and affection and will do anything to ensure that they live a happy and healthy life. But occasionally unavoidable situations happen, and our dogs can need medical care. One of the most prevalent problems in dogs is Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), which may cause significant distress and pain for both the dog and the owner.

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at IVDD surgery, the different types of IVDD surgeries available, and their success ratios.

What Is IVDD?

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a common and debilitating spinal disorder that affects dogs of all breeds and sizes. This condition occurs when the jelly-like material inside the spinal discs ruptures or herniates, putting pressure on the spinal cord and causing pain, weakness, and paralysis. Even though not all cases of IVDD need surgery, it is often the best way to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and prevent more damage.

CIVDD In Dogs

Canine intervertebral disc disease (CIVDD) is a type of IVDD that affects dogs. This condition occurs when the discs between the vertebrae of the spine degenerate and become less flexible. This degeneration can cause the disc to herniate or rupture, leading to the spinal cord and nerve compression. CIVDD can be short-term or long-term, and the symptoms can vary depending on how bad the disc herniation is and where it is.

Symptoms of CIVDD may include:

• Weakness or paralysis in the legs
• Loss of coordination or balance
• Pain or stiffness in the neck or back
• Difficulty walking or standing
• Incontinence

Intervertebral Disc Disease in Dogs Treatment

Depending on how serious the issue is, IVDD in dogs may require treatment. Mild cases of CIVDD may be managed with conservative treatments such as rest, anti-inflammatory medication, and physical therapy. However, more severe cases may require surgery to remove the damaged disc material and relieve pressure on the spinal cord.

IVDD in Dogs Treatment

Several types of IVDD surgeries are available for dogs, each with its own benefits and risks. The most common types of IVDD surgeries for dogs are:

• Hemilaminectomy

  A Hemilaminectomy is the most common surgery performed for IVDD in pets. During this surgery, the veterinarian will remove a portion of the vertebral bone (lamina) to access the intervertebral disc. The herniated disc material is then removed to alleviate the compression of the spinal cord. This treatment is usually done under general anesthesia, and the recovery period varies depending on the condition’s severity.

• Ventral Slot

  Ventral slot surgery is another surgical option for IVDD in pets. This procedure involves cutting the underside of the neck or chest to get to the spinal cord. The herniated disc material is then removed to alleviate the compression of the spinal cord. This surgery is typically performed on larger dogs or those with a more severe condition.

• Stem Cell Safari

  Stem cell therapy is the latest treatment option that involves using stem cells to repair damaged tissue in the body. This therapy can be used in conjunction with surgery or as a standalone treatment for mild cases of IVDD.

Success Ratio Of IVDD Surgeries

IVDD surgery success relies on the herniation’s degree and location, the dog’s age and condition, and the type of surgery. IVDD procedures typically improve symptoms in 80-90% of dogs within a few weeks. 80-90% of dogs recover from hemilaminectomy surgery within 4-6 weeks. Ventral slot surgery offers a 70-80% success rate and a 6-8-week recovery time. IVDD surgery is successful but risky.

All surgeries risk bleeding, infection, and nerve injury. Talk to your vet about IVDD surgery’s dangers and benefits to make an informed decision about your pet’s treatment.

Conclusion

IVDD is frequent in dogs, causing pain, difficulties walking, and paralysis. Pet owners must recognize IVDD symptoms and seek medical assistance. Giving our pets a safe and comfortable home during rehabilitation can also help them heal. Prevention is better than treatment, so keep our pets healthy, exercise them, and take them to the vet periodically.