Clinical case of intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)

Abstract

IVDD is an intervertebral disc injury characterized by extrusion of the disc into the spinal canal, compressing the spinal cord and causing limb paralysis. Diagnosis involves anamnesis, clinical history, physical and neurological examination. Treatment is clinical or surgical, depending on the degree, extent and location. The present report aims to describe the clinical therapeutic evolution of low-grade thoracolumbar IVDD. A male dachshund, 4 years old, 7 kg, with walking difficulties was seen at the UPF Veterinary Hospital. He manifested ambulatory paraparesis and decreased proprioception in both pelvic limbs. Radiographic examination showed calcification of intervertebral disc T5-L1, and decreased intervertebral space T9-T10. We decided to perform clinical treatment by hospitalizing the patient to maintain absolute rest with intravenous prescription of fluid therapy, analgesics (dipyrone and methadone), and anti-inflammatory (methylprednisolone). Bladder catheterization was performed to monitor urine output. The dog was responsive to treatment, having good sensory and motor response in both pelvic limbs and after 5 days hospitalized continued to be willing, so the probe was removed and he was able to urinate in bed without algia to adopt the position. Small walks were made on grass and non-slip floor with support, in which proprioceptive return of the limbs was noted. The patient was then discharged. Oral gabapentin was prescribed for 30 days, prednisone and omeprazole for 7 days. The patient remained clinically well, performed acupuncture and physiotherapy sessions for one month and after this period continued to perform sporadic physiotherapy and his condition remained stable. The clinical therapeutic treatment was effective, along with integrative therapies that helped in muscle strengthening and pain control of the patient.

DOI: 10.56238/sevenIIImulti2023-078