Dog’s rare brain tumour removed through specialist surgery
The hospital is the first in Scotland and one of only five in the UK to perform the procedure.
Veterinary neurosurgeons have successfully removed a dog’s rare brain tumour using a complex and specialist surgery.
The eight-year-old cocker spaniel, Lordy, was referred to the Dick Vet Hospital for Small Animals’ Neurology Service after he displayed multiple complex neurological problems.
MRI imaging revealed a large tumour had formed on his pituitary gland at the base of his brain. The mass had also caused Lordy to develop Cushing’s syndrome – a potentially fatal condition which involves the over-production of a key hormone.
A CT scan suggested that Lordy’s tumour was growing, and could invade other parts of his brain and spinal column. This could lead to additional health problems for the cocker spaniel.
It was agreed that the tumour would be surgically removed in the procedure known as a transsphenoidal hypophysectomy.
The Dick Vet Hospital for Small Animals is the first in Scotland, and one of only five in the UK, to perform the procedure.
In preparation for the procedure, a 3D-printed model was produced using CT images of Lordy’s brain and tumour. This model was fixed to the roof of the cocker spaniel’s mouth during the procedure, enabling vets to locate the best access point to remove the tumour.
Using the model as a guide, the neurosurgeons drilled a 5mm hole through Lordy’s soft palate and the base of his skull, through which they accessed and removed the tumour.
Kept under careful supervision during and after the surgery, Lordy recovered quickly and was discharged three days later.
He returned to the Dick Vet Hospital three and six months later for MRI scans, to monitor his progress after the surgery. The scans revealed no sign of the tumour or any damage to brain tissues.
Aran Nagendran, co-head of the hospital’s Neurology Service, said: “We are pleased that Lordy’s surgery was a success. His care required a multidisciplinary approach and involved colleagues from the Anaesthesia, Internal Medicine and Emergency Critical Care Services at the Hospital.”
Alisdair Boag, a specialist in Small Animal Medicine at the hospital, added: “We are delighted that Lordy’s Cushing’s syndrome has been resolved due to this surgery. He has made great progress since his operation and we are happy to supply ongoing care.”
Image © Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Sciences
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
