Kinetic and kinematic gait analysis of the back movement in chondrodystrophic breeds following hemilaminectomy in comparison to a healthy control population

Abstract

To collect kinetic and kinematic data on the back movement in healthy dogs in comparison to chondrodystrophic dogs following hemilaminectomy while walking and trotting. Gait analysis on the back movement was obtained from 19 healthy dogs and 21 chondrodystrophic dogs following hemilaminectomy procedure in consequence to disc herniation in the thoracic or lumbar region. In transverse and sagittal planes the group of surgically treated dogs showed a higher range of motion (ROM) throughout the spine while walking and trotting. The difference in back movement depended on the region of the hemilaminectomy (thoracic, thoracolumbar, or lumbar). Operated dogs showed a significantly higher weight distribution towards their front limbs. When comparing the weight distribution among the hind limbs, there was a decreased Peak Vertical Force (PVF) and Vertical Impulse (VI) on the side corresponding to the hemilaminectomy. Following hemilaminectomy, dogs displayed increased instability within their spine, which - depending on the region and side of the hemilaminectomy - affected the back movement in different ways. Weight bearing was generally shifted away from the hind limb of the affected side, and towards the front limbs. Even though hemilaminectomy has an effect on the back movement of dogs, it seems not to have relevant influence of quality of life.