The Neurology service at NorthStar VETS specializes in disorders that affect the nervous system such as diseases of the brain, spinal cord, nerve and muscle. We have advanced diagnostic tools to help diagnose neurologic disorders, which help us customize therapy for each individual animal based on their specific needs. Common disorders that affect the nervous system include epilepsy, intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), spinal and brain tumors, and vestibular dysfunction (balance problems).

NorthStar VETS offers a wide array of Neurology services including:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Computed tomography (CT)
• Spinal surgery
• Brain surgery
• Muscle and nerve biopsy
• Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) sampling and analysis
• * Electrodiagnostics - including Electroencephalography (EEG),
  Electromyography (EMG), and Nerve conduction studies
• Neuropathic/chronic pain therapy
• * Coming soon.

The Neurology service at NothStar VETS is committed to working closely with our referring veterinarians and pet owners to provide the most advanced care for our patients to get them back on their feet. To help us diagnose patients with complex neurologic disorders, our hospital has an on-site MRI and CT scanner as well as electrodiagnostic capabilities. Access to these advanced tools helps us diagnosis disease in the quickest and most efficient means possible.

Neurologic disorders can be very debilitating to animals as they can affect their ability to perform everyday functions such as walking, standing and even eating. At NorthStar VETS, we understand that suffering and recovering from neurologic disorders can be a difficult period for both owners and their pets. It is for this reason that the Neurology service works closely with our rehabilitation and pain management specialists to assure all animals are given the best opportunity for making both a comfortable and complete neurologic recovery.

The Neurology service also offers consultation for animals with difficult to control seizure disorders such as epilepsy. With in-depth knowledge of new and emerging seizure therapy, we can offer therapy regimens to optimize seizure control, improving the quality of life for owners and animals alike.

Riley is a 10 year old domestic shorthair who presented to NorthStar VETS with a history of weakness, twitching/tremors, dilated pupils as well as behavior changes. Initial work-up including blood work, urinalysis and x-rays was overall unremarkable aside from evidence of a urinary tract infection. The concern during examination was for a problem in the brain. The owner consented to an MRI of the brain which revealed a large mass in the left cerebral hemisphere (occipital lobe of the brain). The mass was causing severe compression of the underlying brain structures. A tumor called a meningioma was suspected.

After discussing options with the owner, they elected to take Riley to surgery for a decompressive craniotomy/craniectomy. During this type of surgery, an animal's head is placed in a craniotomy stand to help stabilize the head during surgery. Brain surgery requires very close anesthetic monitoring and intra-operative care, so during the entire procedure he was cared for by our critical care department. A special drill was used to cut into the skull and remove the bone that was on top of the region where the tumor was located. The tumor was encountered and a majority was removed and submitted for biopsy. A piece of graft was placed over the bone defect to protect the underlying brain structure and the muscles and skin were closed. Riley recovered very well from surgery and was up and walking around in his cage within a few hours. In many cases of brain tumors in dogs and cats, complete excision of the tumor is not possible due to concerns for injuring normal brain tissue.

The biopsy came back consistent with a meningioma. The tumor arises from the meninges, which are a system of membranes that envelop the brain and spinal cord. Meningiomas are the most common brain tumor identified in cats and dogs. In humans and cats, meningiomas can be removed almost completely during surgery as they do not tend to invade the brain. In dogs, they can be more difficult to remove, but are still amenable to surgical decompression depending on their location. Animals with these tumors tend to have the best response and prognosis with surgical decompression (if possible) and follow-up radiation therapy.

After discharge from NorthStar, Riley was doing well and is back to his old antics at home. A recent conversation with the owner revealed that he was back to playing and grooming his housemate (which apparently he had not done in a year or so). Looking back the signs were there, but were thought to be due to Riley getting older!