Comparison of Computed Tomography Findings and Surgical Outcome Between French Bulldogs and Non-Brachycephalic Dogs with Cervical Intervertebral Disc Herniation

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this retrospective case study was to compare incidence, signalment, history, computed tomography (CT) findings and surgical outcomes between French Bulldogs (FB) and non-brachycephalic dogs (NB) surgically treated for cervical intervertebral disc herniation (IVDH). Methods: Medical records were reviewed for information on breed, age, sex, weight, CT and surgical findings. All dogs underwent CT evaluation of the cervical spine and ventral slot decompression. Surgical outcome and owner satisfaction were evaluated using an owner questionnaire. For statistical analysis a linear regression model was used. Results: Fifty-five dogs were reviewed for this study, 29 FB (23 males and 6 females) and 26 NB (11 males and 15 females). Males were overrepresented in the FB group in this study. FB were significantly younger at presentation than NB (P Conclusion: Breed-specific differences in cervical IVDH presentation characteristics are present between FB and NB. FB have a high relative incidence of cervical IVDH disease and appear to have cervical IVDH at younger ages than NB and a higher male predisposition. They tended to have more cranially located IVDH but clinical presentation and recovery after surgery did not differ between the groups.