What is IVDD Surgery in Dogs?

IVDD is a disease that causes degeneration of your dog's spinal cord and causes a variety of painful mobility issues. Today our Franklin vets explain the causes and treatments for IVDD in dogs and what you can do to help your pup. 

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Intervertebral Disk Disease - IVDD

Intervertebral disk disease (IVDD) in dogs is a painful condition that can also be described as a ruptured, slipped, bulging or herniated disk. This condition is most commonly seen in breeds with longer spines such as beagles, dachshunds, Pekingese, Shih Tzus, basset hounds, or American cocker spaniels but can occur in dogs of any breed. 

Causes of IVDD in Dogs

IVDD is an age-related, gradual degenerative process that affects the spinal cord of the dog over a period of time, often undetected. It can be incredibly difficult to detect even with regular wellness exams. It's not until your dog's disk ruptures and becomes painful that this disease can become apparent. With IVDD simple actions like jumping on the sofa could cause damage to weakened disks and trigger acute painful symptoms.

IVDD occurs when the shock-absorbing discs between your dog's vertebrae gradually begin to harden until they are unable to cushion the vertebrae properly. The hardened discs will typically go on to bulge and compress the spinal cord, often damaging the dog's nerve impulses such as those that control bladder and bowel control. In other cases, a simple jump or poor landing can lead one or more of the hardened discs to burst and press into the nerves of the dog's spinal cord causing pain, possible nerve damage or even paralysis.

Symptoms of IVDD in Dogs

IVDD can develop in any of the discs in your dog's spine and symptoms of this condition will depend upon which part of the spine is affected, and how severe the damage is. Symptoms of IVDD can come on slowly but are equally likely to appear without warning. If your dog is displaying any of the following symptoms seek veterinary care as soon as possible. IVDD can be very painful for dogs and early treatment is essential for preventing the condition from becoming more severe or causing irreversible damage to your dog's spine. 

Signs Your Dog May Have Cervical IVDD - Neck

Cervical IVDD occurs in the discs of the dog's neck. If you may notice one or more of the following symptoms, which can affect the whole body and range from mild to very severe contact your vet for immediate advice, or visit your closest animal emergency hospital for veterinary care:

Signs Your Dogs May Have Thoracolumbar IVDD - Middle Back

Dogs with Thoracolumbar IVDD have a damaged disc causing issues in their back region and may display one or more of the following symptoms. Symptoms of Thoracolumbar IVDD mainly affect the mid to back portion of the dog's body and can range from mild to very severe:

Signs Your Dog May Have Lumbosacral IVDD - Lower Back

If your dog is suffering from lumbosacral IVDD the problematic disc or discs are located in your dog's lower back region. Symptoms of lumbosacral IVDD typically affect the very back of the dog's body and may range from mild to very severe:

Diagnosing Dogs with IVDD

You need to get your dog to the vet immediately if they show any of the symptoms above. Your vet needs to perform X-rays, a neurological exam, and possibly an MRI to locate the damaged disk or disks causing your pet discomfort.

Treatment for IVDD in Dogs

Treatment for IVDD needs to begin as early as possible in order to achieve the best possible treatment outcomes. That's why we recommend taking your dog to the vet for a full examination if you spot signs of IVDD in your dog. Delays in treatment could lead to irreversible damage.

Anti-Inflammatory Medications For IVDD in Dogs

It is common for dog owners to inquire whether their dog can recover from IVDD without surgery. If your dog is diagnosed early with a mild to moderate IVDD injury, your vet may try treatment with steroid and anti-inflammatory medications (to help reduce pain and swelling), combined with strict crate rest for approximately 4 - 8 weeks. 

Surgery to Treat Dogs with IVDD

Surgery is typically recommended for dogs suffering from more severe cases of IVDD where rest and medication are not enough to reduce pain and other symptoms. During surgery, your dog's vet will remove the hardened disc material which is pressing on your dog's spinal cord and causing the IVDD symptoms.

Surgery outcomes are most successful in dogs that still have the ability to walk. If your dog's surgery is not successful in returning your pet to normal mobility, a dog wheelchair can help your canine companion to enjoy a happy and active life while living with IVDD.

Recovery from IVDD surgery requires 6 - 8 weeks of restricted activity. Running, climbing stairs, playing with other dogs, or jumping on furniture need to be prevented in order to avoid further damage as your dog's spine heals.

The cost of IVDD surgery varies greatly depending on a number of factors including where you live, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $4500. Your vet will provide you with an accurate estimate and breakdown of costs.

Physical Rehabilitation for Dogs

Following surgery, your veterinarian may also recommend physical rehabilitation (physical therapy) for your dog in order to work on muscle strengthening and to help get your pet moving comfortably again.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.

If your dog is suffering from signs of IVDD contact our Franklin vets immediately to receive a diagnosis and begin treatment options.