Neurology And Neurosurgery

Neurology and Neurosurgery centers diagnose and treat naturally occurring conditions that affect the spine and brain. Using advanced diagnostic procedures and surgical techniques, more spinal and brain injuries are treatable than ever before.

What Are The Most Common Forms Of Neurological Conditions?

Although there are other treatable conditions, these four are the most common:

• Strokes
• Seizures
• Tumors
• Intervertebral Disk Disease

Strokes

Strokes most often affect older animals that also suffer from kidney disease, hypertension, or cardiac disease. Most pets recover from a stroke if they receive medical attention quickly.

Seizures

Seizures are the most common neurological condition among pets. Neurology centers can provide you with the information you need to manage your pet's seizures.

Tumors

Tumors in pets are about as common as tumors in people. The treatment options are the same as well. Although tumors in pets are usually benign, proper treatment may be required to prevent complications. Treatment options include:

• Surgery
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy

Intervertebral Disk Disease

Intervertebral disk disease is a common ailment for older pets that leads to disk herniation and other spinal injuries. This disease can be successfully treated with conservative therapy, rehabilitation, and surgery.

How Will My Pet Be Diagnosed?

Pets with neurological diseases are diagnosed through a combination of a neurological exam and diagnostic testing. The neurological exam is used to localize the issue. From there, diagnostic testing is completed, resulting in a direct diagnosis.

The most common forms of diagnostic testing are:

• Blood Tests - Blood tests can identify deficiencies and early diseases.
• Radiography - Radiographs can identify the spreading of cancer and bone injuries.
• Computed Tomography Scan - CT scans are useful for identifying issues in the bony tissues in the nervous system.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging - MRIs are useful for identifying issues with the brain and other soft tissues in the nervous system.
• Electrodiagnostic Testing - Electrodiagnostic testing is useful for evaluating muscles and nerves.
• Cerebral Spinal Fluid Analysis - CSF analysis is useful for diagnosing inflammation of the nervous system and other diseases of the brain, such as meningitis.