Our Summary

This research paper discusses a study conducted on 11 Pekingese dogs who suffered from instability in their thoracolumbar vertebrae (the area where the chest and lower back connect), some with additional joint abnormalities. Some symptoms these dogs displayed were partial or complete paralysis in their hind legs. The study used dynamic imaging and surgical manipulation techniques to diagnose this instability.

The dogs were then treated with a decompressive laminectomy (a surgical procedure to relieve pressure on the spinal cord) and efforts were made to stabilize the unstable vertebrae. In one dog, instability was also found in a neighboring spinal segment, which required another operation three months later.

The study showed that all but one dog improved neurologically after the surgery and the follow-up period ranged between 3 to 32 months. Thus, the study concludes that Pekingese dogs with thoracolumbar vertebral instability, whether associated with joint abnormalities or not, can benefit from decompressive laminectomy and stabilization therapies. These procedures can reduce spinal cord injury and improve neurological function.

FAQs

  1. What were the symptoms displayed by the Pekingese dogs suffering from instability in their thoracolumbar vertebrae?
  2. What treatments were administered to the Pekingese dogs with thoracolumbar vertebral instability in the study?
  3. What were the results and conclusion of the study on Pekingese dogs with thoracolumbar vertebral instability?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing a spinal laminectomy to follow all post-operative care instructions carefully, including proper wound care and physical therapy exercises to aid in recovery and prevent complications. It is important to follow up with your doctor regularly to monitor progress and address any concerns. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight, practicing good posture, and avoiding activities that put strain on the spine can help prevent future issues.

Suitable For

Based on this research paper, patients who may benefit from spinal laminectomy include those with:

  1. Thoracolumbar vertebral instability: Patients who have instability in their thoracolumbar vertebrae, especially those with associated joint abnormalities, may benefit from decompressive laminectomy to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and stabilize the vertebrae.

  2. Partial or complete paralysis in the hind legs: Patients experiencing paralysis in their hind legs, as seen in the Pekingese dogs in the study, may benefit from spinal laminectomy to address the underlying spinal cord compression and improve neurological function.

  3. Spinal cord injury: Patients with spinal cord injury, whether due to vertebral instability or other causes, may benefit from decompressive laminectomy to reduce pressure on the spinal cord and potentially improve neurological function.

Overall, patients with spinal conditions leading to spinal cord compression, instability, and neurological deficits may be recommended spinal laminectomy as a treatment option to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.

Timeline

Before the spinal laminectomy:

  1. The patient may experience symptoms such as pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling in the back or limbs.
  2. They may undergo diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to determine the cause of their symptoms.
  3. The patient and their healthcare provider may explore non-surgical treatment options such as physical therapy or medication to manage their symptoms.

After the spinal laminectomy:

  1. The patient undergoes the surgical procedure to relieve pressure on the spinal cord.
  2. They may experience some pain and discomfort immediately after the surgery, which can be managed with medication.
  3. The patient will undergo a period of rehabilitation and physical therapy to regain strength and mobility in the affected area.
  4. Over time, the patient should experience improvement in their symptoms such as reduced pain, improved mobility, and increased function.
  5. Follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider will monitor their progress and address any concerns or complications that may arise.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a spinal laminectomy and how does it relieve pressure on the spinal cord?
  2. How will I know if I am a good candidate for a spinal laminectomy?
  3. What are the risks and potential complications associated with a spinal laminectomy?
  4. What is the success rate of spinal laminectomy in relieving symptoms and improving neurological function?
  5. What is the recovery process like after a spinal laminectomy?
  6. Will I need physical therapy or other rehabilitation after the surgery?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could be considered for my condition?
  8. How long do the effects of a spinal laminectomy typically last?
  9. Will I need any follow-up appointments or additional treatments after the surgery?
  10. How soon can I expect to see improvements in my symptoms after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Aikawa T, Miyazaki Y, Kihara S, Nishimura M. Journal: J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2023 Jul 5;261(10):1-7. doi: 10.2460/javma.23.01.0041. Print 2023 Oct 1. PMID: 37406996