Assessment of decompressive surgery in dogs with degenerative lumbosacral stenosis using force plate analysis and...

To evaluate the long-term outcome after decompressive surgery in dogs with degenerative lumbosacral stenosis (DLS), using force plate analysis (FPA) and owner questionnaires.

Prospective clinical study.

Dogs with DLS (n=31) and 24 clinically normal Labrador Retrievers.

FPA was performed before surgery (31 dogs) and at 3 days, 6 weeks, 6 months (each, 31 dogs) and >or=1.5 years (12 dogs) after surgery. Peak vertical forces (Fz(+)), braking (Fy(+)), and propulsive forces (Fy(-)), and the corresponding impulses were determined. Questionnaires were completed by the owners before and at 6 months and >or=1.5 years after surgery.

Fy(-) of the pelvic limbs and the ratio pelvic/thoracic of Fy(-) (P/TFy(-)) were significantly smaller in dogs with DLS than controls. Fy(-) and P/TFy(-) decreased significantly 3 days after surgery, and increased during 6 months follow-up, but with long-term follow-up the values remained the same and were smaller than controls. From questionnaires there was a significant improvement after surgery compared with function before surgery. Most owners were satisfied with outcome after surgery.

Propulsive forces of the pelvic limbs in dogs with DLS are impaired and are partially restored by decompressive surgery.

Owner's questionnaires illustrate that decompressive surgery restores function as perceived by owners whereas FPA continues to show impaired propulsive forces for the pelvic limbs.