Intervertebral disc prolapse Hansen type I ” Disc Extrusion” & Hemilaminectomy Case
History:
- A 2- years Griffon dog (Taper) was admitted to our clinic, Elite Veterinary Clinic (Riyadh, KSA) with acute onset of hind limb paralysis, urine retention & Constipation.
- History of sudden crying at the garden after a sudden movement followed by recumbency and paralysis.
The Neurological examination reveals the following:
- Increased patellar reflex if both HL (+3)
- Normal Flexor reflex of both HL (+2)
- Reduced cranial tibial reflex of both HL (+1)
- Normal sciatic reflex of both HL (+3)
- Normal perineal reflex (+2)
- Absent proprioception (0) with Knuckling of both hind limbs.
- Normal nociception “Deep pain sensation” (+2)
- Absent superficial cutaneous reflex caudal to the last rib at the left side.
Type and grade of neurological deficits:
- UMN deficit with Grade “4” , localized to T2-L4 spinal segments. Radiographic examination revealed no vertebral luxation or fracture.
Prognosis:
- Favorable prognosis with surgical interference (80% success rate in early surgical admission).
Suspected Diagnosis and Decision:
- Hansen type (1) Intervertebral disc disease was strongly suspected.
- C.T was recommended to accurately assess the cause of spinal nerves compression.

C.T reveals the following:
- Disc extrusion (Hansen type I disc prolapse) located between T12 – T13 vertebrae.
- Herniated disc compresses the spinal cord with 50%.
- Herniated disc material occupies the left and right side ventrally with 70% of the herniated content at the left side.
- Caudal migration of the herniated disc material.
Recommendations:
- Hemilaminectomy surgical procedure to remove the herniated disc with expected recovery period up to 3 months.
- Medical treatment (Neuro-vitamins, Gabapentin, Gastroprotection) for one month following surgery.
- Cage restriction for six weeks following surgery.











Follow up videos reveal:
- Excellent recovery at 14th day after surgery with full legs function.
- Expected more improvement of the proprioception of the left leg (Video).