Chrysanthakopoulou F. DVM, Private Practitioner, Alphavet Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging Center, Athens, Greece | Vantsou V.I. DVM, Private Practitioner, Alphavet Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging Center, Athens, Greece | Roumelioti S. DVM, Private Practitioner, Alphavet Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging Center, Athens, Greece | Papadopoulis P. DVM, Private Practitioner, Alphavet Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging Center, Athens, Greece | Panopoulos I. DVM, Private Practitioner, Alphavet Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging Center, Athens, Greece
Introduction
The aim of the study was to report the MRI findings in different subtypes of intervertebral disc herniation (IVDH) in dogs and further highlight which of them cannot be considered appropriate for surgical management based on their imaging appearance. IVDH is the most common disease of the spinal cord in dogs, with clinical signs varying from mild to severe
Clinical cases
This was a retrospective case series study of canine patients diagnosed with IVDH, based on the MRI exam findings. The median age of the patients was 5 years.
Results
Ηigh-velocity low-volume IVD extrusion (or Hansen type 3), hydrated nucleus pulposus extrusion, as well as traumatic myelopathy, myelomalacia, or epidural hemorrhages were some findings in the MRI that mark IVDH cases as not surgically approachable.
Conclusions
The magnetic resonance of the spinal cord is the golden standard for the diagnosis and description of IVDHs. In many cases, early detection ensures the best treatment, highlighting the importance of MRI in these diseases. Nevertheless, the final decision to pursue surgical or conservative management cannot be made solely based on the MRI findings but should be carefully considered based on other factors, such as the severity and duration of clinical signs, neurological examination, location, and type of herniation, as well as the previous history of the patient.
