Dave came to BVNS Atlanta for having progressive neck pain that started 2 months prior but has had incidents of neck pain over the last four years. He would suddenly cry out and lose his ability to walk. Medications and cage rest helped in the past but on presentation, Dave was having severe neck pain that wasn’t improving with conservative treatment anymore.

After a neurological consultation with Dr. Akin and the recommended MRI were performed, it was revealed that Dave had intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) at C3-C4 causing moderate spinal cord compression. Dr. Akin performed a ventral slot surgery the same day to decompress the spinal cord. Dave was able to be discharged the next day at which point he appeared already more comfortable than before the surgery.

Here is Dave at his suture removal visit and he has been recovering very well! His owners stated that the second day after they brought him home, Dave didn’t seem to be in any pain, he was back to begging, wanting to go outside, and walking with his head up!