Veterinary Vertex
Veterinary Vertex
AVMA Journals
Intradiscal Chondroitinase Injection as a Pragmatic Treatment for Down Dogs
27 minutes Posted Oct 23, 2025 at 7:00 pm.
Sponsor Message & Opening
Hosts Introduce Guests And Study
Why Explore Non-Surgical Disc Treatment
Safety And Effectiveness Results
Origins Of The Idea And Ethics
Surprises And Complications
Positioning Chondroitinase In Care Pathways
Eligibility: Size, Breeds, And Needle Access
How Many Discs To Treat And MRI Use
Recurrence Prevention And Future Studies
Expanding To Cervical Cases And Methods
Chronic Cases And Time Windows
Triage Guidance For ER And GP Vets
AI’s Potential In Imaging Decisions
One Thing Vets And Clients Should Know
Fun Desk Stories And Animal Facts
Closing And Reader Invitation
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27:31
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Show notes
Send us Fan Mail We sit down with Drs. Paul Freeman and Nick Jeffery to discuss a treatment for down dogs that’s changing outcomes and conversations: percutaneous intradiscal chondroitinase injections that act like chemical fenestration, reduce extruded disc material, and help non-ambulatory dogs recover without opening the spine. We walk through the origin of the idea, the ethical hurdles, and the growing dataset behind safety and effectiveness. You’ll hear why deep pain–positive dogs with ...