Comparison of Imaging Methods and Population Pattern in Dogs with Spinal Diseases in Three Periods between 2005 and 2022: A Retrospective Study

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Imaging methods are an essential component in the diagnosis of spinal disorders. Plain and contrast radiographs are widely used in small animal clinical practice; however, the increasing availability of sophisticated imaging methods such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is improving the approach to patient care. Our hypothesis was that the availability of MRI has increased over the years, increasing the diagnostic and therapeutic success rates. We compared the use of two imaging methods (X-ray myelography, MRI) over a period of time and the occurrence of neurologic disease diagnosed with each modality. We found that the therapeutic success rate increased as the number of dogs undergoing MRI increased. ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was the long-term comparison of the imaging methods used in dogs with neurologic diseases related to the spine and spinal cord. We also compared the occurrence of neurological diseases according to the localization, gender, age, and breed. As the availability of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has increased over the years, resulting in increased diagnostic and therapeutic success rates, the study was divided into three time periods (2005–2014, 2015–2018, and 2019–2022). Our results suggest changes in the population structure of the dogs studied and changes in the use of diagnostic methods that directly or indirectly influence the choice and success rate of therapy. Our results may be of interest to owners, breeders, practicing veterinarians, and insurance companies.