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

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

Study Design: Prospective clinical study.

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

Methods: 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.

Results: 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.

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

Clinical Relevance: 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.