Intraoperative problems associated with intervertebral disc disease.

Intervertebral disc disease in the dog is a common problem in veterinary medicine. The clinician must understand the pathophysiology of disc extrusions so the owner can be informed properly when medical versus surgical treatment is indicated. Intervertebral disc surgery requires the same preoperative considerations as any other surgery would: knowledge of regional anatomy, proper equipment, and good surgical techniques and tissue handling. The spinal cord is an unforgiving structure, forcing the surgeon to understand and to avoid intraoperative complications. Some complications are inevitable. Recognizing these complications early and resolving them quickly will help ease early recovery of neurologic function.