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Chemonucleolysis with collagenase. A radiographic and pathologic study in dogs
T Miyabayashi1, P F Lord, R R Dubielzig
1Department of Surgical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Veterinary Surgery : VS
|May 1, 1992
Summary
Collagenase injections narrowed beagle intervertebral discs, causing nucleus pulposus dissolution and protrusion. This collagenase chemonucleolysis may offer an alternative to surgery for disc protrusion.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Biochemistry
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Intervertebral disc protrusion is a common condition in dogs, often requiring surgical intervention.
- Current treatments for canine disc disease carry risks and varying success rates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy and effects of intradiscal collagenase injection as a potential treatment for intervertebral disc protrusion in dogs.
Main Methods:
- Nine middle-aged beagles received intradiscal injections of either a control solution or varying doses of collagenase (100 or 250 ABC units) in intervertebral discs.
- Radiographic and myelographic assessments were performed on day 11 post-injection.
- Gross and histological examinations were conducted to evaluate disc morphology and tissue response.
Main Results:
- Collagenase injections resulted in radiographic disc narrowing by day 11.
- Histological analysis revealed dissolution of the nucleus pulposus and protrusion of disc material into the vertebral bodies.
- No significant changes were observed in myelograms.
Conclusions:
- Intradiscal collagenase administration effectively induced chemonucleolysis in canine intervertebral discs.
- Collagenase chemonucleolysis shows promise as a less invasive alternative to spinal surgery for treating canine intervertebral disc protrusion.