🐾Spinal Surgery - Hemilaminectomy in Dogs - Client FAQS

 
 What is a hemilaminectomy?
A hemilaminectomy is a type of spinal surgery where part of a vertebra (bone) is removed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord.  This pressure is usually caused by a slipped or ruptured disc.
 
Why does my dog need this surgery?
Your dog may need surgery if they have a slipped (herniated) disc compressing the spinal cord

Surgery is recommended when the condition is serious or not improving with treatment.

 
What are the signs of a slipped disc?
Common signs include:
  • Back or neck pain (yelping, reluctance to move)
  • Weakness or wobbliness in the legs
  • Dragging limbs or inability to walk
  • Loss of bladder/bowel control in severe cases
 
What happens during the surgery?
Your dog is placed under general anaesthesia
  • The surgeon makes an incision over the affected area
  • A small section of bone is removed
  • The disc material pressing on the spinal cord is removed

This relieves pressure and allows the spinal cord to recover.

 
What are the risks of surgery?
All surgeries carry some risk, including:
  • Anaesthetic complications
  • Bleeding or infection
  • Incomplete recovery of nerve function
  • In rare cases, worsening neurological signs
 
What is the success rate?
Success depends on how severe the condition is:
  • Dogs still able to walk: very good prognosis (often 80–95% recover well)
  • Dogs unable to walk but still feel pain: good prognosis (around 70–90%)
  • Dogs with no pain sensation: more guarded prognosis  - the outcome may range from no improvement and the need for euthanasia to a very good recovery and a happy ongoing life.  For these dogs recovery usually takes longer and requires more intensive rehabilitation such as help with walking, toiletry and physiotherapy.

Early treatment is very important for the best chance of good outcomes.

 
How long will my dog take to recovery?
Initial recovery: 1–2 weeks
  • Restricted rest period: 4–6 weeks
  • Full recovery: up to 8–12 weeks (or longer in severe cases)

Some dogs improve quickly, while others need more time and rehabilitation.

 
Will my dog need to stay in hospital?
Yes.  Most dogs stay 2–5 days after surgery.  This allows for pain control, monitoring, and early recovery support.
 

What care will I need to provide at home?
You’ll need to:

  • Strictly restrict your dog’s activity (crate rest)
  • Assist your dog with walking if needed
  • Give medications (pain relief, anti-inflammatories)
  • Monitor their urination and bowel movements
 
Will my dog need physiotherapy?
Often, yes.  Physiotherapy can:
  • Improve strength and coordination
  • Speed up recovery
  • Help regain mobility

This may include exercises, hydrotherapy, or referral to a rehab specialist.

 
Can this happen again?
Yes, especially in certain breeds (e.g. Dachshunds, French Bulldogs).
There is a risk of future disc problems, either at the same site or elsewhere in the spine.
 
Are there alternatives to surgery?
In mild cases there are alternatives such as:
  • Strict rest
  • Anti-inflammatory medication
  • Pain relief

However, these options may not be effective in severe cases, and delaying surgery can worsen outcomes.

 
What is the long-term outlook?
Many dogs return to a good quality of life, especially if:
  • Surgery is done early
  • They still have pain sensation before surgery

Some dogs may have mild long-term weakness or require lifestyle adjustments.