Study Design. This study demonstrated the therapeutic value of chemonucleolysis with chondroitinase ABC to canine intervertebral disc displacement.
Objectives. To determine the efficacy of Chondroitinase ABC in the management of canine intervertebral disc displacement.
Summary of Background Data. No previous study has assessed the chemonucleolysis with chondroitinase ABC in the displaced discs. The changes of intervertebral disc syndrome were evaluated in this study.
Methods. Fifty-nine dogs with symptoms and signs of intervertebral disc displacement were treated with Chondroitinase ABC by a single intradisc injection. The changes in symptoms and signs of disc herniation in the dogs were followed from 7 days to 3 years after treatment.
Results. Forty-eight dogs were evaluated for the efficacy of the chemonucleolytic treatment with Chondroitinase ABC. At 1 week after injection, 45 of 48 dogs showed some improvement in symptoms and signs. No adverse reactions were observed. There was no recurrence of symptoms in nine dogs who were observed from 14 months to 3 years after injection.
Conclusion. Chemonucleolytic treatment with Chondroitinase ABC is an effective and safe method for the management of canine intervertebral disc displacement.