Intervertebral Disc Disease - 9yrs old

[puakea]

Hi There,

We got back from a weekend at the emergency clinic and an afternoon at the neurologist today with the conclusion that Kea most likely has Intervertebral Disc Disease most focused on her neck region.

The vet said she felt pretty confident on this diagnosis but couldn't conclusively confirm without an MRI ($3,000!).

Kea came home with a bag of heavy duty pills and has been ordered to her crate for 4-6 weeks for some "conservative management care".

Surgery may be in her future if we want to tackle this head on.

A few questions for folks who may have gone through this:

I'm wondering why the Neurologist didn't 1st suggest x-rays? Is an MRI the only way in these cases? I know x-rays for humans can often offer clues to back issues... We may be able to afford either the MRI or the surgery costs, but certainly not both. Any thoughts?

Kea's 9 years old. I've been researching this all afternoon and most to all of what I have read are from people electing this surgery for dogs younger and smaller.

I guess what I'm looking for hear are surgery success stories of your older boxers and this condition!

thanks!!

 

[crazychopper]

ivdd

taking x-ray is a waste of money, you can't see dics with x-ray. We were just at neurologist with our dog, he said if its disc diesase in neck region surgery is really to only option for total relief. Yes the mri is expensive but I would have it done before you go to surgery. We just found out our guy has an uncommon spinal cancer via mri it can not be seen without an mri. There is pain managment in mean time. You should see if your general practice veterinarian offer cold laser therapy. Highly recommend it provides alot of relief.