Lumbosacral Transitional Vertebra(LTV)
Also known as: Lumbosakraler Übergangswirbel · Sakralisation · Lumbalisation · Übergangswirbel · Lumbosakrale Übergangsstörung · …
Overview
What it is
Übergangswirbel, also known as lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LSTV), is a congenital skeletal malformation where a vertebra at the junction of two spinal sections—usually the lower back and the pelvis—develops abnormally, sharing characteristics of both areas. This anatomical variation can cause instability or uneven pressure in the lower spine. It is frequently identified during standard hip dysplasia screening radiographs, which evaluate the same pelvic region.
How it presents
Many dogs remain completely asymptomatic, but others may show signs of lower back pain, stiffness, difficulty jumping, or weakness in the hind legs. These symptoms typically become noticeable as the dog matures into adulthood or middle age.
Treatment
Management ranges from conservative options like physiotherapy and pain medication to corrective spinal surgery for severe nerve compression. Depending on whether the dog requires lifelong medical support or a one-time surgical procedure, veterinary costs generally range from €500 to €5,000.
How it's tested
Hüftgelenksdysplasie-Auswertung (HD-Röntgen) nach FCI(HD-FCI)
Primary testRadiographRöntgenaufnahme der Hüftgelenke unter Sedation, ausgewertet nach FCI-Standard (A-E). Standardpflicht bei den meisten VDH-Zuchtvereinen.
Issuing body: FCI
Result scheme: HD-FCI
Affected breeds
14 of 14 breeds
Mandatory testBelgian MalinoisMandated by Deutscher Malinois Club e.V. (DMC)
Mandatory testDutch Shepherd
Mandatory testDutch Shepherd (Longhair)
Mandatory testDutch Shepherd (Wire-Haired)
Mandatory testHanoverian ScenthoundMandated by Verein Hirschmann e.V.
Mandatory testLagotto RomagnoloMandated by Lagotto Romagnolo Wasserhunde Deutschland e.V.
RecommendedEurasier
RecommendedGerman Shepherd
RecommendedGroenendael
RecommendedOld German Shepherd Dog
OptionalAustralian Shepherd
OptionalKai Ken
OptionalRhodesian Ridgeback
OptionalThai Ridgeback
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Lumbosacral Transitional Vertebra?
Übergangswirbel, also known as lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LSTV), is a congenital skeletal malformation where a vertebra at the junction of two spinal sections—usually the lower back and the pelvis—develops abnormally, sharing characteristics of both areas. This anatomical variation can cause instability or uneven pressure in the lower spine. It is frequently identified during standard hip dysplasia screening radiographs, which evaluate the same pelvic region.
How is Lumbosacral Transitional Vertebra tested?
Tests currently in our database: Hüftgelenksdysplasie-Auswertung (HD-Röntgen) nach FCI.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Belgian Malinois, Dutch Shepherd, Dutch Shepherd (Longhair), Dutch Shepherd (Wire-Haired), Hanoverian Scenthound, Lagotto Romagnolo, Eurasier, German Shepherd.