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Intervertebral Disc Disease

The spinal cord is protected by bony vertebrae. To allow shock absorption and flexion of the spine, the vertebrae are separated by soft cushions (intervertebral discs). These cushions are similar to jelly donuts: they have a firm exterior and a soft middle. Due to age or genetics, the outer portion degenerates and the soft center is pushed out (ruptured) without warning when the spine moves. When the disc ruptures, the center is expelled with high velocity and force, bruising the spinal cord that lies above it. The spinal cord swells from the impact and becomes compressed by the surrounding bone. Pressure on the spinal cord impairs nerve conduction along the spinal column. Symptoms of intervertebral disc disease range from acute pain to paralysis. The area of the body affected depends on the location of the disc rupture. Diagnosis of IVDD requires physical examination to localize the lesion followed by imaging studies with a myelogram (radiographs with contrast material) or MRI. Treatment depends on the severity of the signs. Mild cases benefit from strict rest and pain management. Patients with acute paralysis require emergency surgery to restore normal nerve conduction and prevent permanent nerve damage.

Intervertebral Disc Disease

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Contact Us

8942 Centreville Road Easton, MD, 21601

Located on the Bypass across from Old Mill Deli

Phone: (410) 822-2282 Email: eastonvetclinic@gmail.com Fax: (410) 202-2112

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Hours of Operation

Monday: 7:00 am-6:00 pm Tuesday: 7:00 am-7:00 pm Wednesday: 7:00 am-6:00 pm Thursday: 7:00 am-7:00 pm Friday: 7:00 am-6:00 pm Saturday: 7:00 am–3 pm Sunday: On-Call Emergency Care

Emergencies

If you are having a pet emergency during normal business hours, call us at (410) 822-2282 starting at 7:00 am for a same-day urgent care appointment. If you think your pet is having a medical emergency outside of our regular office hours, press the emergency care tab to schedule an appointment with our VetTriage veterinarians.