A follow-up study of neurologic and radiographic findings in working German Shepherd Dogs with and without degenerative lumbosacral stenosis

Abstract

Results suggested that survey radiography cannot be used to predict development of DLSS in working GSDs.

Transarticular Fixation With Cortical Screws Combined With Dorsal Laminectomy and Partial Discectomy as Surgical Treatment of Degenerative Lumbosacral Stenosis in 17 Dogs: Clinical and Computed Tomography Follow‐Up

“…As reduction of LS misalignment widens spinal canal diameter and subsequently reduces compression of nerve roots and vasculature this finding suggests a potential benefit . However, there is controversy literature about the clinical importance of LS misalignment and therefore, our finding represents a technical advantage that may be of little clinical relevance …”

“…18 However, there is controversy literature about the clinical importance of LS misalignment and therefore, our finding represents a technical advantage that may be of little clinical relevance. 7,17 Residual mobility of the LS joint measured on extended and flexed postoperative CT scans accounted for 11.25°. This finding demonstrates clearly that transarticular fixation does not result in rigid stabilization of the LS articulation.…”

“…Proprioception and postural reactions of the pelvic limbs were graded as present or absent, spinal reflexes of the pelvic limbs were recorded as normal or reduced, tail and anal tonus as present or absent. LS pain was assessed by the lordosis test, application of digital pressure on the lumbosacral junction, traction and extension of the tail and palpation of the ventral lumbosacral joint per rectum and subsequently graded as evident or not evident . In all dogs, a complete blood count, serum biochemical profile, urinalysis, thoracic radiography and abdominal ultrasonography were performed to exclude concurrent diseases.…”

Feasibility and Accuracy of Ultrasound‐guided Sacroiliac Joint Injection in Dogs

“…Lumbosacral region pain is an important cause of disability in large breed dogs, particularly those used for tasks that require a high level of athletic performance . The problem often occurs at middle age, when dogs are at the peak of their training and work performance.…”

Transarticular Facet Screw Stabilization and Dorsal Laminectomy in 26 Dogs with Degenerative Lumbosacral Stenosis with Instability

“…Clinical suspicion of DLS is generated from signalment, history, clinical examination, and survey radiography. Advanced diagnostic imaging, including contrast radiography (myelography, epidurography, discography), computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are used to confirm the diagnosis . Radiographic changes at the LS junction are not uncommon in dogs without clinical signs, likewise dogs presenting with caudal lumbar pain and neurologic deficits, may have minimal or no radiographic findings; making interpretation sometimes challenging .…”