Fenestration. Pros and Cons

Fenestration of canine intervertebral discs is a time-honored, yet controversial, procedure used by veterinarians in the management of degenerative disc disease. It has been touted for both its supposed therapeutic effects and for its purported role in preventing future episodes of disc-related clinical signs. In spite of its long-standing reputation and wide use by many, fenestration may lack a firm scientific basis for its continued incorporation in the repertoire of the veterinary spine surgeon. This chapter will explore the key issues that impinge on the role fenestration plays and discuss the pros and cons attendant with its use. The author feels that, with the ability to diagnose and treat intervertebral disc prolapse in more sophisticated and scientific ways, fenestration should largely be abandoned. The evidence for this conclusion and the limited role that may still be reserved for fenestration are discussed.