Doença do disco intervertebral (ddiv): slot ventral como técnica cirúrgica para descompressão medular

Abstract

This study was conducted at Somos Vet Veterinary Clinic, Goiânia, describing a 5-year-old male Dachshund with cervical Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). Clinical signs included cervical pain, proprioceptive ataxia, and vocalization on palpation, with preserved ambulation. Imaging (CT and X-ray) revealed disc extrusion at C5-C6 causing ∼40% spinal cord compression, plus thoracic disc mineralizations consistent with degenerative discopathy. Bloodwork was unremarkable. After neurological assessment, a ventral slot procedure was indicated. Anesthetic protocol: premedication with dexmedetomidine + methadone, induction with propofol, maintenance with isoflurane + CRI of fentanyl, lidocaine, and ketamine. Surgical technique: ventral approach to C5-C6, disc fenestration, and bone opening limited to 33% of vertebral body height and 50% of disc width. Extruded disc material was removed for complete spinal cord decompression. Closure in layers. Postoperative care included multimodal analgesia, methylprednisolone, clindamycin, and restricted activity. At 21-day follow-up, the dog showed no cervical pain, normal gait, and no neurological deficits. The ventral slot is a safe, effective technique for cervical IVDD, with >95% success rates reported. Early diagnosis with CT/MRI, precise surgical technique, and proper postoperative management are key to favorable outcomes.