5 STAGES OF IVDD

Diagnosis & Prognosis Grading

5 STAGES OF IVDD

Diagnosis & prognosis Grading

It is important that any dachshund that is displaying any signs or symptoms of IVDD be urgently referred to and assessed by a specialist vet who can accurately assess the grading of IVDD.

It helps immensely for owners to know so that they can with their specialist put an appropriate management plan in place for their dachshund whether that be conservative or surgical care for the management of their Dachshund’s IVDD.

At grades 1 and 2, conservative (non-surgical) treatment is often a sensible first choice, though surgery may be indicated if the dog does not improve.  At grades 3-5, surgical treatment gives a better chance of a successful outcome.

Stage I: Mild pain and usually self-correcting in a few days

Stage II: Moderate to severe pain in the neck or low back area

Stage III: Partial paralysis causing trouble walking and/or uncoordinated movements

Stage IV: Paralysis but with the ability to feel

Stage V: Paralysis and the loss of all feeling

5-point grading scale for Dachshunds with IVDD courtesy of Marianne Dorn BVM&S PGCert SART MRCVS.

IVDD Diagnosis and Prognosis