Spinal surgery in dogs and cats

Spinal surgery in dogs and cats covers a range of procedures — from disc decompression for Hansen Type I and II IVDD, to vertebral fracture stabilisation, foramen magnification for Chiari-like malformations, and laminectomy for spinal tumours. A specialist veterinary neurologist will determine the correct procedure based on MRI findings, neurological grade, and the patient's overall condition.

What it is

The spine is accessed depending on lesion location: dorsal laminectomy and hemilaminectomy for thoracolumbar disc disease, ventral slot for cervical disc disease, modified dorsal laminectomy for caudal cervical spondylomyelopathy. Vertebral fractures are stabilised with screws, pins, and cement or locking plates. Spinal tumours may be removed via laminectomy, sometimes combined with radiation. Foramen magnification and durotomy are performed for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels with syringomyelia.

When it's needed

• IVDD grades 3–5 (significant weakness or paralysis) — surgical urgency applies
• Vertebral fracture or luxation causing spinal cord compression
• Spinal tumour (meningioma, nerve sheath tumour, vertebral tumour) confirmed on MRI
• Caudal cervical spondylomyelopathy ('Wobbler syndrome') failing medical management
• Syringomyelia / Chiari-like malformation in Cavaliers causing intractable pain
• Lumbosacral stenosis causing cauda equina syndrome

Procedure summary

All spinal surgery requires MRI (and sometimes CT) for pre-operative planning. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia with neuromonitoring at leading centres. Duration is 1–4 hours depending on complexity. Post-operative intensive care and physiotherapy are essential components of treatment.

Recovery

Recovery timeline depends on neurological grade and procedure. Disc decompression: most ambulatory dogs recover to walking within 2–6 weeks. Non-ambulatory dogs with intact deep pain have >90% success; without deep pain, ~50–60% if operated within 24 hours. Stabilisation procedures: 8–12 weeks strict rest. All patients benefit from early physiotherapy and hydrotherapy.

Common questions