Pathological changes in the lumbar spine of pigs: gross findings

The lumbar vertebral columns from 60 sows and 30 slaughter weight pigs were examined grossly for pathological changes. Asymmetry of lumbar articular facets and minor periarticular osteophytes were seen in the slaughter weight group. Degeneration of intervertebral discs or vertebral osteophytes were not present. In contrast, 38% of 60 sows had vertebral osteophytes and 40% had degeneration of intervertebral discs. Extensive ankylosing spondylosis was present in two sows. Other vertebral lesions observed in sows include asymmetry and arthrosis of articular facets, fissures and areas of cavitation in the annulus fibrosus and vertebral end plate, and vertebral osteomyelitis and/or vertebral fracture. Extravertebral skeletal lesions, some of which could be related to a clinical history of lameness or posterior paralysis, include sacroiliac arthrosis, pelvic deformity, polyarthritis, femoral osteomyelitis, sacroiliac dislocation and epiphyseolysis involving the femoral head or tuber ischii.