IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease) surgery

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) occurs when spinal disc material herniates and compresses the spinal cord or nerve roots. It is the most common cause of sudden hind-limb paralysis in dogs, particularly in chondrodystrophic breeds. Surgical decompression — when performed promptly — offers the best chance of full neurological recovery.

What it is

The most common surgical approach is hemilaminectomy or ventral slot: the surgeon removes a portion of the vertebra overlying the disc to access and remove the herniated material pressing on the cord. The technique depends on the location and type of herniation. Surgery does not 'repair' the disc — it decompresses the cord and stops ongoing damage.

When it's needed

• Acute onset of hind-limb weakness or paralysis (grade 3–5 neurological dysfunction)
• Loss of deep pain perception — a neurological emergency requiring surgery within hours
• Recurrent episodes that do not respond to medical management
• Progressive neurological decline despite rest and anti-inflammatory treatment
• Severe spinal pain not controlled by medication

The procedure

Under general anesthesia, the surgeon uses fluoroscopy or CT guidance to confirm the lesion site, then performs decompressive surgery (hemilaminectomy, pediculectomy, or ventral slot depending on location). Duration is typically 1–3 hours. Most dogs remain hospitalised for 2–5 days for monitoring and pain management.

Recovery

Recovery depends on neurological grade at surgery. Dogs with preserved deep pain have >90% chance of walking again; those without deep pain have a 50–60% chance if operated within 24 hours. Physiotherapy and hydrotherapy significantly improve outcomes. Full recovery takes 4–12 weeks.

Frequently asked questions