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Knell SC, Smolders LA, Pozzi A. Ex vivo Evaluation of the Dynamic Morphometry of the Caudal Cervical Intervertebral Disc Spaces of Small Dogs and Cats. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:706452. [PMID: 34485434 PMCID: PMC8415525 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.706452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to provide a morphometric description of the caudal cervical intervertebral disc (IVD) spaces of small-breed dogs and cats. Specimens consisting of C4 through C7 from five small-breed dogs and six cats were positioned in neutral, flexion, extension, and lateral bending positions; and CT images were acquired. Height and width of the cranial and caudal vertebral endplates (VEPs), angle between the VEPs (IVD wedge angle), and craniocaudal distance (IVD width) between VEPs for the four loading positions were measured and compared for three segments (C4-C5, C5-C6, and C6-C7). VEP size normalized to body weight from medium-sized dogs was retrieved from a previous study and compared with data from small dogs and cats. A linear mixed model was used to compare outcome measures. Significance was set to p < 0.05. VEP size normalized to body weight was the largest in small dogs compared with cats (p = 0.0422) and medium-sized dogs (p = 0.0064). Cats and medium-sized dogs were similar (p = 0.2763) in this regard. Flexion and extension induced a reduction of IVD width in the ventral portion of the IVD and the area of the nucleus. The dorsal part of the IVD remained unchanged throughout loading conditions. Unique morphometric characteristics of the caudal cervical IVD space of small dogs and cats were detected that are different from those described in sizes of dogs (medium-sized) typically affected by caudal cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM). These findings may help to understand the different pathomechanisms in cervical spinal disease between small- and medium-sized dogs, including caudal CSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian C. Knell
- Clinic for Small Animal Surgery, Vetsuisse Faculty University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Longo S, Gomes SA, Briola C, Duffy K, Targett M, Jeffery ND, Freeman P. Association of magnetic resonance assessed disc degeneration and late clinical recurrence in dogs treated surgically for thoracolumbar intervertebral disc extrusions. J Vet Intern Med 2021; 35:378-387. [PMID: 33283382 PMCID: PMC7848362 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radiographic signs of intervertebral disc mineralization are thought to indicate sites of future recurrence of disc extrusion (Hansen type I) but the relationship between evidence of disc degeneration on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and future disc extrusion with recurrence of clinical signs has not been examined. OBJECTIVES To examine the relationship between MRI-assessed degeneration of thoracolumbar intervertebral discs and late recurrence of clinical signs in dogs presented with acute thoracolumbar intervertebral disc extrusion and treated by hemilaminectomy alone. ANIMALS Ninety-two client-owned dogs presented to 2 referral hospitals between 2009 and 2014. METHODS Retrospective analysis of association between clinical signs consistent with recurrent thoracolumbar intervertebral disc extrusion and MRI evidence of disc degeneration in dogs undergoing hemilaminectomy for acute thoracolumbar intervertebral disc extrusion. Univariable and multivariable Cox regression analyses were used to explore associations between recurrence of clinical signs and several characteristics of T10-L3 discs at initial diagnosis. RESULTS Ninety-two cases were included, of which 42 (46%) were Dachshunds and median age was 5.3 years. Clinical signs recurred in 33/92 (36%) dogs. Finding a completely degenerate disc in the T10 to L3 region (in addition to the operated site) at the time of surgery was associated with a hazard ratio of 2.92 (95% confidence interval: 1.37-6.20) for recurrence of clinical signs. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE Our results suggest that in cases of thoracolumbar intervertebral disc extrusion in dogs, recurrence of signs is likely if at least 1 completely degenerate disc in addition to the currently symptomatic disc is visible on MRI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Chiara Briola
- The Queen's Veterinary School Hospital, Department of Clinical Veterinary MedicineUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - Katherine Duffy
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of NottinghamLeicestershireUK
| | - Mike Targett
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of NottinghamLeicestershireUK
| | - Nick D. Jeffery
- Department of Small Animal Clinical SciencesTexas A&M UniversityCollege StationTexasUSA
| | - Paul Freeman
- The Queen's Veterinary School Hospital, Department of Clinical Veterinary MedicineUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
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da Costa RC, De Decker S, Lewis MJ, Volk H. Diagnostic Imaging in Intervertebral Disc Disease. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:588338. [PMID: 33195623 PMCID: PMC7642913 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.588338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Imaging is integral in the diagnosis of canine intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) and in differentiating subtypes of intervertebral disc herniation (IVDH). These include intervertebral disc extrusion (IVDE), intervertebral disc protrusion (IVDP) and more recently recognized forms such as acute non-compressive nucleus pulposus extrusion (ANNPE), hydrated nucleus pulposus extrusion (HNPE), and intradural/intramedullary intervertebral disc extrusion (IIVDE). Many imaging techniques have been described in dogs with roles for survey radiographs, myelography, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Given how common IVDH is in dogs, a thorough understanding of the indications and limitations for each imaging modality to aid in diagnosis, treatment planning and prognosis is essential to successful case management. While radiographs can provide useful information, especially for identifying intervertebral disc degeneration or calcification, there are notable limitations. Myelography addresses some of the constraints of survey radiographs but has largely been supplanted by cross-sectional imaging. Computed tomography with or without myelography and MRI is currently utilized most widely and have become the focus of most contemporary studies on this subject. Novel advanced imaging applications are being explored in dogs but are not yet routinely performed in clinical patients. The following review will provide a comprehensive overview on common imaging modalities reported to aid in the diagnosis of IVDH including IVDE, IVDP, ANNPE, HNPE, and IIVDE. The review focuses primarily on canine IVDH due to its frequency and vast literature as opposed to feline IVDH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronaldo C da Costa
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Steven De Decker
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Services, Royal Veterinary College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Melissa J Lewis
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Holger Volk
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hanover, Hanover, Germany
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Brocal J, De Decker S, José-López R, Guevar J, Ortega M, Parkin T, Ter Haar G, Gutierrez-Quintana R. Evaluation of radiography as a screening method for detection and characterisation of congenital vertebral malformations in dogs. Vet Rec 2018. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.104388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Josep Brocal
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow; Glasgow UK
| | - Steven De Decker
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences; Royal Veterinary College, University of London; Hatfield UK
| | - Roberto José-López
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow; Glasgow UK
| | - Julien Guevar
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow; Glasgow UK
| | - Maria Ortega
- Neurology service; Centro Clinico Veterinario Indautxu; Bilbao Bizkaia Spain
| | - Tim Parkin
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow; Glasgow UK
| | - Gert Ter Haar
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences; Royal Veterinary College, University of London; Hatfield UK
| | - Rodrigo Gutierrez-Quintana
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow; Glasgow UK
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5
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Gregori T, Lam R, Priestnall SL, Lamb CR. TRUNCATION ARTIFACT IN MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGES OF THE CANINE SPINAL CORD. Vet Radiol Ultrasound 2016; 57:582-586. [PMID: 27256165 DOI: 10.1111/vru.12380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Revised: 03/17/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The truncation artifact in magnetic resonance (MR) images is a line of abnormal signal intensity that occurs parallel to an interface between tissues of markedly different signal intensity. In order to demonstrate the truncation artifact in sagittal images of the canine spinal cord and the effect of changing spatial resolution, we conducted an experimental in vitro study. A section of fixed canine spinal cord was imaged using a 1.5T magnet. Spatial resolution was increased by increasing the acquisition matrix and reconstruction matrix, producing series of T2-weighted (T2w) images with the following pixel sizes: A, 1.6 (vertical) × 2.2 mm2 (horizontal); B, 1.2 × 1.7 mm2 ; C, 0.8 × 1.1 mm2 ; D, 0.4 × 0. 6 mm2 . Plots of mean pixel value across the cord showed variations in signal intensity compatible with truncation artifact, which appeared as a single, wide central hyperintense zone in low-resolution images and as multiple narrower zones in high spatial resolution images. Even in images obtained using the highest spatial resolution available for the MR system, the edge of the spinal cord was not accurately defined and the central canal was not visible. The experiment was repeated using an unfixed spinal cord specimen with focal compression applied to mimic a pathologic lesion. Slight hyperintensity was observed within the spinal cord at the site of compression although the cord was normal histologically. Results of this study suggest that caution should be applied when interpreting hyperintensity affecting the spinal cord in T2w sagittal images of clinical patients because of the possibility that the abnormal signal could represent a truncation artifact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Gregori
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK.
| | - Richard Lam
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Simon L Priestnall
- Department of Pathology and Pathogen Biology, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Christopher R Lamb
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK
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De Decker S, Gomes SA, Packer RMA, Kenny PJ, Beltran E, Parzefall B, Fenn J, Nair D, Nye G, Volk HA. EVALUATION OF MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING GUIDELINES FOR DIFFERENTIATION BETWEEN THORACOLUMBAR INTERVERTEBRAL DISK EXTRUSIONS AND INTERVERTEBRAL DISK PROTRUSIONS IN DOGS. Vet Radiol Ultrasound 2016; 57:526-33. [DOI: 10.1111/vru.12394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2016] [Revised: 04/04/2016] [Accepted: 05/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Steven De Decker
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science and Services; Royal Veterinary College; University of London; Hawkshead lane, AL9 7TA North Mymms Hatfield England
| | - Sergio A. Gomes
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science and Services; Royal Veterinary College; University of London; Hawkshead lane, AL9 7TA North Mymms Hatfield England
| | - Rowena MA Packer
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science and Services; Royal Veterinary College; University of London; Hawkshead lane, AL9 7TA North Mymms Hatfield England
| | - Patrick J. Kenny
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science and Services; Royal Veterinary College; University of London; Hawkshead lane, AL9 7TA North Mymms Hatfield England
| | - Elsa Beltran
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science and Services; Royal Veterinary College; University of London; Hawkshead lane, AL9 7TA North Mymms Hatfield England
| | - Birgit Parzefall
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science and Services; Royal Veterinary College; University of London; Hawkshead lane, AL9 7TA North Mymms Hatfield England
| | - Joe Fenn
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science and Services; Royal Veterinary College; University of London; Hawkshead lane, AL9 7TA North Mymms Hatfield England
| | - Devi Nair
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science and Services; Royal Veterinary College; University of London; Hawkshead lane, AL9 7TA North Mymms Hatfield England
| | - George Nye
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science and Services; Royal Veterinary College; University of London; Hawkshead lane, AL9 7TA North Mymms Hatfield England
| | - Holger A. Volk
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science and Services; Royal Veterinary College; University of London; Hawkshead lane, AL9 7TA North Mymms Hatfield England
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Gomes SA, Volk HA, Packer RM, Kenny PJ, Beltran E, De Decker S. CLINICAL AND MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING CHARACTERISTICS OF THORACOLUMBAR INTERVERTEBRAL DISK EXTRUSIONS AND PROTRUSIONS IN LARGE BREED DOGS. Vet Radiol Ultrasound 2016; 57:417-26. [PMID: 27038182 DOI: 10.1111/vru.12359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2015] [Accepted: 12/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment recommendations differ for dogs with intervertebral disk extrusion vs. intervertebral disk protrusion. The aim of this retrospective, cross-sectional study was to determine whether clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) variables could be used to predict a diagnosis of thoracolumbar intervertebral disk extrusion or protrusion in dogs. Dogs were included if they were large breed dogs, had an MRI study of the thoracolumbar or lumbar vertebral column, had undergone spinal surgery, and had the type of intervertebral disk herniation (intervertebral disk extrusion or protrusion) clearly stated in surgical reports. A veterinary neurologist unaware of surgical findings reviewed MRI studies and recorded number, location, degree of degeneration and morphology of intervertebral disks, presence of nuclear clefts, disk space narrowing, extent, localization and lateralization of herniated disk material, degree of spinal cord compression, intraparenchymal intensity changes, spondylosis deformans, spinal cord swelling, spinal cord atrophy, vertebral endplate changes, and presence of extradural hemorrhage. Ninety-five dogs were included in the sample. Multivariable statistical models indicated that longer duration of clinical signs (P = 0.01), midline instead of lateralized disk herniation (P = 0.007), and partial instead of complete disk degeneration (P = 0.01) were associated with a diagnosis of intervertebral disk protrusion. The presence of a single intervertebral herniation (P = 0.023) and dispersed intervertebral disk material not confined to the disk space (P = 0.06) made a diagnosis of intervertebral disk extrusion more likely. Findings from this study identified one clinical and four MRI variables that could potentially facilitate differentiating intervertebral disk extrusions from protrusions in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio A Gomes
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, AL97TA, Hatfield, UK
| | - Holger A Volk
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, AL97TA, Hatfield, UK
| | - Rowena Ma Packer
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, AL97TA, Hatfield, UK
| | - Patrick J Kenny
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, AL97TA, Hatfield, UK
| | - Elsa Beltran
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, AL97TA, Hatfield, UK
| | - Steven De Decker
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, AL97TA, Hatfield, UK
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Fenn J, Drees R, Volk HA, Decker SD. INTER- AND INTRAOBSERVER AGREEMENT FOR DIAGNOSING PRESUMPTIVE ISCHEMIC MYELOPATHY AND ACUTE NONCOMPRESSIVE NUCLEUS PULPOSUS EXTRUSION IN DOGS USING MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING. Vet Radiol Ultrasound 2015; 57:33-40. [PMID: 26306004 DOI: 10.1111/vru.12289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2015] [Accepted: 06/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Ischemic myelopathy (IM) and acute noncompressive nucleus pulposus extrusion (ANNPE) are common spinal emergencies in dogs with similar clinical presentations. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) criteria for a presumptive antemortem diagnosis have been reported, however inter- and intraobserver agreement for use of these criteria has not been established. The aim of this retrospective, descriptive, cross-sectional study was to describe inter- and intraobserver agreement for using previously published MRI criteria to diagnose presumptive IM and ANNPE in a sample dogs. Dogs with a presumptive diagnosis of IM or ANNPE and available MRI scan data were retrieved from medical record archives during the period of 2009 and 2013. A total of 127 dogs were identified. From this sample, MRI scans for 60 dogs were randomly selected and duplicated for intraobserver analysis, giving a total of 187 anonymized studies that were presented to two blinded assessors (one board-certified veterinary neurologist, one board-certified veterinary radiologist). Assessors were asked to diagnose lesions as IM or ANNPE based on previously published MRI characteristics. Interobserver agreement in diagnosing IM or ANNPE was moderate (Kappa = 0.56) and intraobserver agreement was moderate to good (Assessor 1 Kappa = 0.79, Assessor 2 Kappa = 0.47). Agreement was strongest for detecting presence of lesions overlying a vertebral body (94% of lesions that were diagnosed as IM) or overlying an intervertebral disk (85% of lesions that were diagnosed as ANNPE). Findings indicated that use of previously published MRI criteria yields moderate inter- and moderate to good intraobserver agreement for a presumptive diagnosis of IM or ANNPE in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joe Fenn
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Randi Drees
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Holger A Volk
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Steven De Decker
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA, UK
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9
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Stabile F, Bernardini M, Bevilacqua G, Ekiri AB, de Stefani A, De Risio L. Neurological signs and pre- and post-traction low-field MRI findings in Dobermanns with disc-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy. J Small Anim Pract 2015; 56:331-8. [DOI: 10.1111/jsap.12326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Revised: 11/09/2014] [Accepted: 12/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- F. Stabile
- Centre for Small Animal Studies; Animal Health Trust; Newmarket Suffolk CB8 7UU
| | - M. Bernardini
- Department Animal Medicine, Production and Health; University of Padua; Legnaro Italy
- I Portoni Rossi Veterinary Hospital; Zola Predosa Italy
| | - G. Bevilacqua
- I Portoni Rossi Veterinary Hospital; Zola Predosa Italy
| | - A. B. Ekiri
- Centre for Preventive Medicine; Animal Health Trust; Newmarket Suffolk CB8 7UU
| | - A. de Stefani
- Dick White Referral, Neurology and Neurosurgery; Station Farm Six Mile Bottom Cambridge
| | - L. De Risio
- Centre for Small Animal Studies; Animal Health Trust; Newmarket Suffolk CB8 7UU
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Aikawa T, Shibata M, Asano M, Hara Y, Tagawa M, Orima H. A comparison of thoracolumbar intervertebral disc extrusion in French Bulldogs and Dachshunds and association with congenital vertebral anomalies. Vet Surg 2014; 43:301-7. [PMID: 24433331 DOI: 10.1111/j.1532-950x.2014.12102.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2011] [Accepted: 07/14/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare data for French Bulldogs and Dachshunds that had hemilaminectomy for thoracolumbar intervertebral disc extrusion (T-L IVDE) by 1 surgeon and to evaluate the association between IVDE and congenital vertebral anomalies. DESIGN Retrospective case series. ANIMALS French Bulldogs (n = 47) and 671 Dachshunds. METHODS Age, gender, vertebral anomaly, kyphosis/kyphoscoliosis, IVDE site, non-recovery and progressive hemorrhagic myelomalacia development from grade 5 (paraplegia without deep nociception) were compared between the 2 breeds. RESULTS French Bulldogs were significantly younger (P = .00001), more likely to be male (P = .023), and more likely to have a congenital vertebral anomaly and kyphosis/kyphoscoliosis (P < .00001) than Dachshunds. The frequencies of French Bulldogs with IVDE within typical sites (T11-L3) were significantly lower (P = .0005) and within caudal sites (L3-L7) significantly higher (P = .0001) compared with Dachshunds. None of the French Bulldogs had IVDE within the kyphotic/kyphoscoliotic segment. The frequency of lumbar IVDE (L1-L5) in French Bulldogs with kyphosis/kyphoscoliosis was significantly higher (P = .003) compared with French Bulldogs without kyphosis/kyphoscoliosis. In grade 5 dogs, the risk of developing progressive hemorrhagic myelomalacia in French Bulldogs was significantly higher (P = .03) than in Dachshunds. CONCLUSION The distribution of IVDE site in French Bulldogs within the thoracolumbar and lumbar spine was different from Dachshunds. IVDE sites were not located at the sites of vertebral anomaly. French Bulldogs appeared to have T-L IVDE at younger ages, with higher male predisposition and higher risk of developing progressive hemorrhagic myelomalacia from grade 5 compared with Dachshunds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Aikawa
- Aikawa Veterinary Medical Center, Shinjyuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan; Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Kyounan-cho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo, Japan
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11
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Foss K, da Costa RC, Rajala-Schuttz PJ, Rajala-Shultz PJ, Allen MJ. Force plate gait analysis in Doberman Pinschers with and without cervical spondylomyelopathy. J Vet Intern Med 2012; 27:106-11. [PMID: 23278957 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.12025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2012] [Revised: 09/13/2012] [Accepted: 10/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The most accepted means of evaluating the response of a patient with cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM) to treatment is subjective and based on the owner and clinician's perception of the gait. OBJECTIVE To establish and compare kinetic parameters based on force plate gait analysis between normal and CSM-affected Dobermans. ANIMALS Nineteen Doberman Pinschers: 10 clinically normal and 9 with CSM. METHODS Force plate analysis was prospectively performed in all dogs. At least 4 runs of ipsilateral limbs were collected from each dog. Eight force platform parameters were evaluated, including peak vertical force (PVF) and peak vertical impulse (PVI), peak mediolateral force (PMLF) and peak mediolateral impulse, peak braking force and peak braking impulse, and peak propulsive force (PPF) and peak propulsive impulse. In addition, the coefficient of variation (CV) for each limb was calculated for each parameter. Data analysis was performed by a repeated measures approach. RESULTS PMLF (P = .0062), PVI (P = .0225), and PPF (P = .0408) were found to be lower in CSM-affected dogs compared with normal dogs. Analysis by CV as the outcome indicated more variability in PVF in CSM-affected dogs (P = 0.0045). The largest difference in the CV of PVF was seen in the thoracic limbs of affected dogs when compared with the thoracic limbs of normal dogs (P = 0.0019). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE The CV of PVF in all 4 limbs, especially the thoracic limbs, distinguished clinically normal Dobermans from those with CSM. Other kinetic parameters less reliably distinguished CSM-affected from clinically normal Dobermans.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Foss
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
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12
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Foss K, da Costa RC, Moore S. Three-dimensional kinematic gait analysis of Doberman Pinschers with and without cervical spondylomyelopathy. J Vet Intern Med 2012. [PMID: 23194100 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.12012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The optimal treatment of cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM) is controversial, with the owner's and clinician's perception of gait improvement often being used as outcome measures. These methods are subjective and suffer from observer bias. OBJECTIVES To establish kinematic gait parameters utilizing digital motion capture in normal Doberman Pinschers and compare them with CSM-affected Dobermans. ANIMALS Nineteen Doberman Pinschers; 10 clinically normal and 9 with CSM. METHODS All dogs were enrolled prospectively and fitted with a Lycra(®) body suit, and motion capture was performed and used to reconstruct a 3-D stick diagram representation of each dog based on 32 reflective markers, from which several parameters were measured. These included stride duration, length, and height; maximal and minimal spinal angles; elbow and stifle flexion and extension; and maximum and minimum distances between the thoracic and pelvic limbs. A random-effects linear regression model was used to compare parameters between groups. RESULTS Significant differences between groups included smaller minimum (mean = 116 mm; P = .024) and maximum (mean = 184 mm; P = .001) distance between the thoracic limbs in CSM-affected dogs. Additionally, thoracic limb stride duration was also smaller (P = .009) in CSM-affected dogs (mean = 0.7 seconds) when compared with normal dogs (mean = 0.8 seconds). In the pelvic limbs, the average stifle flexion (mean = 100°; P = .048) and extension (mean = 136°; P = .009), as well as number of strides (mean = 2.7 strides; P = .033) were different between groups. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE Our findings suggest that computerized gait analysis reveals more consistent kinematic differences in the thoracic limbs, which can be used as future objective outcome measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Foss
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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De Decker S, da Costa RC, Volk HA, Van Ham LML. Current insights and controversies in the pathogenesis and diagnosis of disc-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy in dogs. Vet Rec 2012. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.e7952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. De Decker
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences; Royal Veterinary College; Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms Hatfield Hertfordshire AL9 7TA UK
| | - R. C. da Costa
- College of Veterinary Medicine; The Ohio State University; 1900 Coffey Road Columbus OH 43210 USA
| | - H. A. Volk
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences; Royal Veterinary College; Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms Hatfield Hertfordshire AL9 7TA UK
| | - L. M. L. Van Ham
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Ghent University; Salisbrylaan, 133 B-9820 Merelbeke Belgium
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De Decker S, Gielen IMVL, Duchateau L, Volk HA, Van Ham LML. Intervertebral disk width in dogs with and without clinical signs of disk associated cervical spondylomyelopathy. BMC Vet Res 2012; 8:126. [PMID: 22839697 PMCID: PMC3411421 DOI: 10.1186/1746-6148-8-126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2012] [Accepted: 07/28/2012] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disk-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy (DA-CSM) is a multifactorial neurological disorder in which progressive caudal cervical spinal cord compression is mainly caused by one or more intervertebral disk protrusions. The Doberman pinscher breed seems predisposed for this condition. The underlying cause and pathophysiology of DA-CSM are currently unknown. Recently, wider intervertebral disks have been put forward as a risk factor for development of clinically relevant DA-CSM. However, little is known about other factors affecting intervertebral disk width. Therefore the aim of this study was to assess the association between intervertebral disk width, measured on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and clinical status, age, gender and intervertebral disk location in dogs with and without clinical signs of DA-CSM. METHODS Doberman pinschers with clinical signs of DA-CSM (N=17),clinically normal Doberman pinschers (N=20), and clinically normal English Foxhounds (N=17), underwent MRI of the cervical vertebral column. On sagittal T2-weighted images, intervertebral disk width was measured from C2-C3 to C6-C7. Intra -and interobserver agreement were assessed on a subset of 20 of the 54 imaging studies. RESULTS Intervertebral disk width was not significantly different between Doberman pinschers with clinical signs of DA-CSM, clinically normal Doberman pinschers or clinically normal English Foxhounds (p=0.43). Intervertebral disk width was positively associated with increasing age (p=0.029). Each monthly increase in age resulted in an increase of disk width by 0.0057 mm. Intervertebral disk width was not significantly affected by gender (p=0.056), but was significantly influenced by intervertebral disk location (p <0.0001). The assessed measurements were associated with a good intra -and interobserver agreement. CONCLUSIONS The present study does not provide evidence that wider intervertebral disks are associated with clinical status in dogs with and without DA-CSM. Instead, it seems that cervical intervertebral disk width in dogs is positively associated with increase in age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven De Decker
- Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms AL97TA, UK.
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da Costa RC, Echandi RL, Beauchamp D. Computed tomography myelographic findings in dogs with cervical spondylomyelopathy. Vet Radiol Ultrasound 2012; 53:64-70. [PMID: 22093094 DOI: 10.1111/j.1740-8261.2011.01869.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Computed tomography (CT) myelography is used occasionally in the diagnosis of cervical spondylomyelopathy, but the type of lesion found in large- versus giant-breed dogs using this modality has not been characterized. Our purpose was to report the frequency of compressive lesions in large- and giant-breed dogs with cervical spondylomyelopathy and imaged using CT myelography. Fifty-eight dogs were retrospectively studied, 23 large-breed and 35 giant-breed dogs. Multiple sites of compression were found in 12 large-breed dogs (52.2%) compared to 30 (85.8%) giant-breed dogs. The main site of compression was at C5-6 and C6-7 in both large-breed (91.3%) and giant-breed (72.4%) dogs. The main cause and direction of compression was disc-associated and ventral in 19 (82.6%) of the large-breed dogs while osseous changes were the primary cause of compression in 27 (77.2%) of the giant-breed dogs, with most compressions being lateral (51.4%), followed by dorsolateral (14.2%). Osseous compression was observed at C7-T1 in eight giant-breed dogs (22.8%), and at T1-T2 or T2 only in five dogs (14.3%). Four of 23 large-breed dogs (17.4%), and seven (20%) of 35 giant-breed dogs had spinal cord atrophy. Therefore, giant-breed dogs often have multiple compressions, usually caused by osseous changes causing lateralized compressions. In large-breed dogs most compressions are disc-associated and located ventrally. Considering the number of giant-breed dogs with compressions at C7-T1, T1-2, and T2, it is important to include the cranial thoracic region when imaging dogs suspected of having cervical spondylomyelopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronaldo C da Costa
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
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De Decker S, Gielen IMVL, Duchateau L, Oevermann A, Polis I, Van Soens I, van Bree HJJ, Van Ham LML. Evolution of clinical signs and predictors of outcome after conservative medical treatment for disk-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy in dogs. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2012; 240:848-57. [DOI: 10.2460/javma.240.7.848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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De Decker S, Saunders JH, Duchateau L, Pey P, Van Ham LML. Radiographic vertebral canal and vertebral body ratios in Doberman Pinschers with and without clinical signs of caudal cervical spondylomyelopathy. Am J Vet Res 2011; 72:958-66. [DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.72.7.958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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De Decker S, Gielen IMVL, Duchateau L, Corzo-Menéndez N, van Bree HJJ, Kromhout K, Bosmans T, Van Ham LML. Intraobserver, interobserver, and intermethod agreement for results of myelography, computed tomography-myelography, and low-field magnetic resonance imaging in dogs with disk-associated wobbler syndrome. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2011; 238:1601-8. [DOI: 10.2460/javma.238.12.1601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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De Decker S, Van Soens I, Duchateau L, Gielen IMVL, van Bree HJJ, Binst DHAR, Waelbers T, Van Ham LMLM. Transcranial magnetic stimulation in Doberman Pinschers with clinically relevant and clinically irrelevant spinal cord compression on magnetic resonance imaging. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2011; 238:81-8. [PMID: 21194326 DOI: 10.2460/javma.238.1.81] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation for differentiating between clinically relevant and clinically irrelevant cervical spinal cord compression on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). DESIGN Validation study. ANIMALS Clinically normal Doberman Pinschers without (n = 11) and with (6) spinal cord compression on MRI and 16 Doberman Pinschers with disk-associated wobbler syndrome (DAWS). PROCEDURES After dogs were sedated, transcranial magnetic motor evoked potentials were recorded from the extensor carpi radialis muscle (ECRM) and cranial tibial muscle (CTM). Onset latencies and peak-to-peak amplitudes were measured. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed to identify spinal cord compression. RESULTS There were significant differences in ECRM and CTM onset latencies between Doberman Pinschers with DAWS and each of the 2 groups of clinically normal dogs, but there were no significant differences in ECRM and CTM onset latencies between the 2 groups of clinically normal dogs. There were significant differences in CTM peak-to-peak amplitudes between Doberman Pinschers with DAWS and each of the 2 groups of clinically normal dogs, but there were no significant differences in ECRM peak-to-peak amplitudes among groups or in CTM peak-to-peak amplitudes between the 2 groups of clinically normal dogs. There was a significant correlation between severity of spinal cord compression and ECRM onset latency, CTM onset latency, and CTM peak-to-peak amplitude. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results suggested that transcranial magnetic stimulation may be a useful diagnostic tool to differentiate between clinically relevant and clinically irrelevant spinal cord compression identified on MRI alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven De Decker
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Clinical Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
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De Decker S, Gielen IMVL, Duchateau L, van Bree HJJ, Waelbers T, Bavegems V, Van Ham LML. Morphometric dimensions of the caudal cervical vertebral column in clinically normal Doberman Pinschers, English Foxhounds and Doberman Pinschers with clinical signs of disk-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy. Vet J 2011; 191:52-7. [PMID: 21257325 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2010.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2010] [Revised: 11/18/2010] [Accepted: 12/13/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Client-owned, clinically normal Doberman Pinschers (n=20), English Foxhounds (n=17), and Doberman Pinschers with clinical signs of disk-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy (DA-CSM) (n=17) were prospectively studied. All dogs underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the cervical vertebral column. To evaluate vertebral canal stenosis, the canal occupying ratios of the spinal cord and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-column were calculated from C5 to C7. To evaluate the degree of spinal cord compression and the amount of canal compromise, the compression ratio, remaining spinal cord and CSF-column area, and vertebral canal and dorsoventral vertebral canal compromise ratios were calculated at the site of most severe compression. For each canal occupying ratio, there was a significant higher value (implicating less space available for the spinal cord in the vertebral canal) at the level of C7 for clinically affected Doberman Pinschers compared with clinically normal English Foxhounds. The remaining spinal cord area was significantly smaller in dogs with clinically relevant spinal cord compression compared to dogs with clinically irrelevant spinal cord compression. Relative stenosis of the caudal cervical vertebral canal occurred more often in Doberman Pinschers with DA-CSM compared to English Foxhounds and a critical degree of spinal cord compression should be reached to result in clinical signs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven De Decker
- Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hertfordshire AL97TA, United Kingdom.
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