This is Ned, a 12-year-old Labrador who presented for recent onset of seizures. An MRI was performed, which revealed a contrast-enhancing mass in the right olfactory lobe of his brain.
A biopsy was performed, and Ned was found to have a meningioma, a tumor that arises from the meninges (the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord). Meningiomas are the most common brain tumors in dogs, and more common in large breed, older dogs.
Treatment options include palliative/symptomatic therapy (which usually involves medications such as anticonvulsants and steroids), surgical removal, or radiation therapy. Due to the location of the mass and potential benefit, Ned’s family elected for surgery.
Dr. Klopp of our Neurology & Neurosurgery Department performed the procedure on Ned and removed the mass using an array of delicate neurosurgical instruments and our latest technology – a CUSA (cavitronic ultrasonic surgical aspirator). CUSA is the same equipment used by human hospitals to perform delicate neurosurgery. It causes minimal effects on the brain, spinal cord, and surrounding tissues, helps reduce bleeding and anesthesia time, and improves patient outcomes
We are thrilled to report that Ned recovered very well from surgery and was up and around the next morning. After being discharged, he was served an extra special 'welcome home' meal!
The goal of all treatments offered at CVRC is to improve a patient’s quality of life and offer pets and their humans many more years together. Our team is very proud to be part of Ned's story!
