Spinal Cord Diseases - Acute Paralysis

Question 1

Regarding acute intervertebral disc extrusion, what are the discs most commonly affected located?

Answer 1

Between T11 & L3

Question 2

(T/F) NSAIDs and corticosteroids should never be combined as the risk of gastrointestinal perforation, peritonitis and death increases substantially

Answer 2

True

Question 3

(T/F) Severe spinal pain is a consistent feature of fibrocartilaginous embolic myelopathy (FCEM)

Answer 3

False, the spinal cord parenchyma has no nociceptors, as such spinal pain is not a feature of FCEM

Question 4

(T/F) Spinal radiographs miss approximately 25% of cases of spinal fractures and luxations (one in each of the 4 cases). The gold standard for assessment of spinal trauma is computed tomography

Answer 4

True

Question 5

(T/F) Strict confinement (cage rest) for a minimum of 3 to 4 weeks is recommended for the treatment of acute intervertebral disc extrusion

Answer 5

True

Question 6

• Breeds: Mostly chondrodystrophic dogs – Dachshund, Pekingese
• Any breed can be affected
• Chondroid degeneration
  - Calcification
• Mainly discs between T11-L3

Answer 6

Acute Thoracolumbar IVDD (Type I, IVD Extrusions - IVDE)

Question 7

(T/F) Spinal radiographs are very sensitive tests in case of spinal trauma and they can detect fractures or luxations in over 90% of cases

Answer 7

False