18/08/2026
Our neurology team recently saw Forest, a lovely 3year old Labrador with a history of apparent discomfort, reluctance to jump and exercise.
Following MRI, Forest was diagnosed with an abnormal bone in his lower back called a transitional vertebra. A transitional vertebra is where a spinal bone takes on the traits of the section next to it. This was likely contributing to early degeneration of the supporting tissues in this area and secondary nerve compression.
He unfortunately did not improve with medical treatment or a course of 3 epidural steroid injections, being unable to return to exercise without being painful. He therefore returned to see our neurologist Edward Ives and neurology resident Sophie Stables for further imaging for surgical planning and surgery.
Forest underwent a lumbosacral spinal stabilisation surgery whereby 3D-printed patient specific drill guides were used to make placement of his implants as safe as possible, maximising the strength of the construct. The affected bones were stabilised using titanium pedicle screws and rods as seen in the video, before bone graft was collected from his hip bones to pack around these implants with the aim of promoting fusion and the best long-term outcome for this young dog. 🦴🤍
The video shows Forest looking very happy the day after surgery and he has continued to bounce back, doing well at his recent 4 week check! 🐕
