Discospondylitis, osteomyelitis and sublumbar abscessation with a pathological vertebral fracture in a dog managed by ventral omentalisation and concurrent dorsal vertebral stabilisation

Abstract

This report describes a chronic case of discospondylitis and sublumbar abscessation managed with a combination of omentalisation and vertebral stabilisation. Although there are previous reports of omentalisation in patients presenting with sublumbar abscesses, there are no documented cases of these surgeries being combined with stabilisation of a vertebral body fracture secondary to discospondylitis. This case specifically discusses an initial conservative approach and subsequent surgical intervention. A 5‐year‐old, female, neutered, cocker spaniel presented with a 2‐month history of lethargy, non‐localised pain, reluctance to move and pyrexia. Diagnostic investigations revealed a fracture of the third lumbar vertebrae, associated discospondylitis and sublumbar abscessation due to suspected foreign material. Conservative management with rest and antimicrobial therapy was initiated; however, after worsening of clinical signs, surgery was subsequently carried out. We report post‐operative follow‐up of 4 years, which revealed an overall positive outcome, with no long‐term recurrence of clinical signs or adverse effects.