What is Cervical Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in dogs, and which breeds are most at risk?

Cervical Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is a spinal issue in dogs, where discs in the neck region rupture or herniate, causing pain and potential neurological problems. Dachshunds, Beagles, and Poodles are more prone to cervical IVDD due to their breed predispositions, particularly smaller breeds with chondrodystrophic features. This is often seen as severe neck pain, sometimes accompanied by weakness in all four limbs.

What is ventral spondylectomy, and why is timing so critical when considering it as a treatment for cervical IVDD?

Ventral spondylectomy is a surgical procedure used to treat cervical IVDD. It involves creating an opening in the vertebrae to remove herniated disc material. If this surgery is delayed, the disc material can harden and stick to the dura mater, increasing the risk of complications, like hemorrhage and damage to the spinal cord. Early intervention is crucial to avoid such complications.

Can you describe a specific case where cervical disc surgery went wrong and what the consequences were?

In a case of a Dachshund with chronic cervical IVDD, complications during ventral spondylectomy led to severe hemorrhage, meningeal detachment, and tearing of the spinal cord. Despite resuscitation attempts, the dog died. A necropsy revealed damage to the spinal cord and venous sinuses, along with clotted blood and residual disc material, illustrating the potential risks associated with delayed surgical intervention.

What are the key signs that my dog might have a cervical disc issue, and what immediate steps should I take?

If a dog shows signs of neck pain, weakness, or neurological deficits, it's essential to seek immediate veterinary attention, preferably from a specialist experienced in spinal disorders. Early and accurate diagnosis of IVDD is critical to prevent potential complications from delayed treatment, such as irreversible spinal cord damage or the need for more invasive surgical procedures with higher risks.

Why is early diagnosis and intervention so crucial in cases of chronic cervical IVDD, and what are the potential implications of delaying treatment?

Early diagnosis and timely intervention are essential because chronic cervical IVDD can lead to irreversible damage to the spinal cord, increasing the risk of complications during surgery like ventral spondylectomy. The hardening and adherence of disc material to the dura mater over time makes surgical removal more difficult and dangerous. The case study emphasizes that delayed surgery can result in iatrogenic injuries, ultimately leading to a poorer outcome for the dog. While not mentioned, other advanced imaging techniques such as MRI could aid in early diagnosis to avoid waiting.

A surreal illustration of a dachshund's spine surgery, highlighting the risks and challenges of IVDD treatment.

Cervical Disc Surgery Gone Wrong: What Pet Owners Need to Know

Elliot Brynn in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 4 min read.

"A cautionary tale of a dog's spinal surgery highlights the importance of early intervention and specialized care for canine disc disease."

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) in the cervical region is a common issue in dogs, accounting for around 15% of all disc extrusions in the species. Smaller breeds, especially those with chondrodystrophic features like Dachshunds, are particularly prone to this condition. While IVDD can occur in any breed, Dachshunds, Beagles, and Poodles make up a significant percentage of cervical disc extrusion cases.

The primary symptom of cervical IVDD is severe neck pain, often unresponsive to medication. Neurological signs related to spinal cord compression or nerve root impingement may also be present, including tetraparesis (weakness in all four limbs) or lameness in a front leg. While conservative treatment (strict cage rest and anti-inflammatory medication) can be effective for some patients, surgery is often necessary for those with significant neurological deficits.

This article will delve into a case study showcasing the potential risks and complications associated with surgical intervention for chronic cervical IVDD in dogs. By understanding the challenges and potential pitfalls, pet owners can make more informed decisions about their furry friend's care.

When Waiting Worsens the Outcome: Understanding the Risks of Delayed Surgery

A surreal illustration of a dachshund's spine surgery, highlighting the risks and challenges of IVDD treatment.

The most common surgical procedure for cervical IVDD is ventral spondylectomy, which involves creating a small opening in the vertebrae to access and remove the herniated disc material. However, if surgery is delayed for several weeks, the disc material can harden and adhere to the dura mater (the protective membrane surrounding the spinal cord). This makes removal more difficult and increases the risk of complications.

Consider a Dachshund, eight years old, who presented with flaccid tetraparesis lasting two months following a fall. Despite initial treatment with anti-inflammatories and analgesics by other veterinarians, the dog's condition did not improve. Eventually, ventral spondylectomy was pursued to address a chronic cervical intervertebral disc extrusion.

During the procedure, while removing the herniated disc material, severe hemorrhage from the venous sinuses occurred.
Meningeal detachment with medullary laceration (tearing of the spinal cord) was observed.
The dog's cardiovascular and respiratory parameters deteriorated rapidly.
Despite resuscitation attempts, the dog died due to complications from the surgery.

Necropsy revealed meningomedullary laceration and venous sinus damage, along with a significant amount of clotted blood and residual disc material adhering to the dura mater. This tragic case underscores the importance of early intervention and the potential for iatrogenic (treatment-induced) injury when dealing with chronic IVDD.

Key Takeaways: Protecting Your Dog from IVDD Risks

This case highlights the critical need for early and accurate diagnosis of IVDD in dogs. If your dog exhibits signs of neck pain, weakness, or neurological deficits, seek immediate veterinary attention from a specialist experienced in spinal disorders.

Prompt surgical intervention is often crucial for dogs with moderate to severe neurological deficits. Delays in treatment can lead to hardening of the disc material and increased adhesion to the dura mater, making surgery more challenging and increasing the risk of complications.

While ventral spondylectomy is a common and often successful procedure, it is not without risks. Discuss the potential complications with your veterinarian and ensure they have the expertise and resources to manage any unforeseen issues. Ultimately, proactive and informed decision-making is key to ensuring the best possible outcome for your beloved canine companion.