Nigel was rushed into Kentdale earlier this year because he had suddenly lost the use of his back legs. He was seen by one of our RCVS and EBVS recognized Specialists in Surgery, Jan Beranek. After a thorough examination and discussion with Nigel’s worried owners, he was admitted for a special kind of scan called a CT myelogram.
The scan showed some swelling and bruising of Nigel’s spinal cord consistent with a condition called a non-compressive, nucleus pulposus extrusion (ANNPE). This is where a small amount of spinal disc material is pushed into the spinal cord, usually due to trauma or vigorous exercise.
Unlike traditional slipped discs in dogs, this condition usually does not require surgery to correct. However, in Nigel’s case there was extensive spinal cord swelling, and the staff at Kentdale were concerned that he may not make a full recovery.
Nigel was hospitalised at Kentdale for supportive care, including intensive physiotherapy. After two days he regained feeling in his back legs, and after a week he walked out of the hospital with his delighted owners! He continued to make steady progress over the next few weeks with the help of his owners.
Nigel’s case shows how dramatic spinal cord injuries can be, but also highlights how the entire team of nurses, vets and physiotherapists worked together to get the best possible outcome for him. Well done Nigel!
Contact Kentdale Vets for more information about their services.
