Hemilaminectomy – Feline **WARNING SURGICAL PHOTOS INCLUDED** Thunder, a beautiful Maine Coon cat was brought in to see Dr John Parker, as his owner had noticed he was unstable on his hind limbs. An MRI was performed, and showed Thunder was suffering from intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). He required s surgical procedure called Hemilaminectomy. Also known as decompression surgery, a hemilaminectomy is a type of surgery commonly used to manage…

What is the difference between a computed tomography scanner (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging scanner (MRI)? The main difference between CT and MRI is the technology used to scan the patient: CT uses radiation to produce cross-section images with the help of computer processing. CT images are more detailed than standard x-ray images and can show organs, soft tissue and bone. MRI images the water molecules in the body through…

Lumbar-Sacral MRI Fidget was presented to Dr Pierre Barreau with spinal discomfort. It was recommended that we perform an MRI scan of her lumbar-sacral spine. RVN Charlie ran the MRI scan, whilst Head RVN Becky monitored Fidgets Anaesthetic. The images from the scan will be examined closely and a treatment plan will be made accordingly. Fidget enjoyed a cuddle with ANA Sophie before going home!

Ear flushing Yoda was presented to Dermatologist Dr Carly Mason with an ear complaint. He was admitted for an ear flush and a CT to check his inner ear health and to check for polyps. Carly irrigates the ear with saline to soften and suck out all the cerumen. Once clear sue checks the health of the ear drum. Yoda went on to have a CT to check for any…

BOAS Meet the lovely Ernest who came to us for Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) surgery to alleviate his breathing issues. BOAS surgery involves removing excess tissue that is causing obstruction along the airway which then widens the passage for air flow. BOAS is a breed related disorder that obstructs the air flow to the lungs due to shortened skull and muzzle. Clinical signs vary in severity from mild snoring…

Radioiodine Treatment Today Simba received his Radioiodine injection treatment for his Hyperthyroidism. He will stay with us for about 10-14 days whilst his radioactivity levels are too high to be at home. He is joined by Arthur (post to follow) and 3 other cats this month. All receive a full health check and examination before Dr Kaye Gugich administers the injection. After the injection is given, the nurses are unable…

Warning: Surgical photos. Arthroscopy and shoulder stabilisation Rocco was present to Dr Pierre Barreau with forelimb lameness. He was admitted for a shoulder arthroscopy. The joint was inspected, and a tear of the cranial aspect of the subscapularis muscle tendon was present. No other lesions could be detected. The joint was flushed with saline. Surgery to stabilise the joint was then performed. RVN Louise scrubbed in to assist Dr Pierre…

Warning: Surgical photos. Hip joint dorso-lateral luxation Clover was presented to Dr Pierre Barreau with chronic right hip joint dorso-lateral luxation, which happened after a fight with another dog approximately 3 weeks ago. Pierre advised a surgical procedure should be performed to prevent the hip from luxating. RVN Charlie scrubbed in to assist Dr Pierre during surgery. Lots of debris and fibrous tissue were present in the acetabulum which was…

Skin complaint Ripley was presented to Dr Carly Mason our Dermatologist. His owner reports that he is itchy, chews his feet and smells yeasty. Carly took some skin tapes and advised on some medication to help relieve Ripley’s itchiness. Ripley popped out the back to see RVN Charlie and PCA Maddy for a pawdicure! Isn’t he gorgeous

Cardiology Oreo was presented to Cardiologist Dr Babis Koffas, as his owner had noted abnormal breathing episodes at home. He’d previously had radiographs at his first opinion vets which had highlighted a possible mediastinal mass and an abnormal cardiac silhouette. Dr Babis performed a cardiac ultrasound and Electrocardiogram. Both showed normal cardiac function. The ultrasound did again, highlight the medistinal mass so a CT was advised. Dr Kaye Gugich performed…