Neurology and neurosurgery
Neurology is an area of medicine specialising in the diagnosis and treatment of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and muscles. Veterinary Neurologists diagnose and treat neurological problems of dogs and cats.
Neurosurgery is a surgical specialty focused on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the nervous system (brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves). Pets, like humans, can experience a variety of neurological problems that can cause pain, movement disorders, or even paralysis.
When to apply to Veterinary Neurologist?
You have to consult a Veterinary Neurologist if you notice the following symptoms of your dog or cat:
• Seizures: any seizures or convulsions, especially if they recur or last more than a few minutes.
• Coordination disorders: the pet loses balance, walks with a swaying gait, or has difficulty standing.
• Paralysis or weakness: sudden paralysis of limbs or muscle weakness.
• Behavioural changes: sudden change in behaviour, such as aggression, fear, or disorientation.
• Head tilt: head tilt or unusual head position.
• Eye movement disorders: unusual eye movements, for instance, uncontrolled movement or inability to focus.
• Pain in the neck or back area: your pet shows signs of pain when the neck or back is touched, or avoids moving.
• Sudden loss of hearing or vision: unexpected hearing or vision impairment or loss.
Most common neurological surgeries performed for dogs and cats (Neurosurgery)
1. Intervertebral disc surgery:
• this procedure is performed in case of herniated intervertebral discs that cause spinal cord compression and neurological symptoms.
2. Brain tumour removal:
• surgery aims to remove or shrink brain tumours to relieve pressure and prevent further neurological deterioration.
3. Spinal stabilization:
• performed in cases of spinal instability or injury to stabilize the spine and prevent spinal cord damage.
4. Hydrocephalus (fluid accumulation in the brain):
• bypass surgery may be performed to reduce fluid accumulation in the brain and relieve pressure.
5. Peripheral nerve surgery:
• performed in case of damage to the peripheral nerves, for instance, due to injury or tumours, to restore nerve function.
Course of neurological consultation
1. Initial assessment: a Veterinarian will perform a thorough clinical examination, including a neurological examination, to assess the symptoms and possible causes.
2. Diagnostics: various diagnostic tests may be performed, for instance, blood tests, X-rays, MRI, CT, electroencephalography (EEG), or cerebrospinal fluid analysis.
3. Treatment plan: a treatment plan will be developed based on the results of the tests that may include medication, physiotherapy or surgical interventions.
4. Surgery (if necessary): if surgery is necessary, the doctor will explain the procedure, risks, and recovery process.
5. Post-operative care: it is important to follow instructions of Veterinarian for post-operative care after the surgery that may include medications, a special diet, limited physical activity, and physiotherapy.
Register for consultation by phone +3701288788
Head of Department: Private Veterinarian Vytautas Stankus
Doctors of Department:
Veterinarian Tomas Viselga
Veterinarian Simonas Monkevičius
Veterinarian Margarita Grikšaitė
Veterinarian Veslava Kaikarienė
Veterinarian Emilija Venckutė