Services
 

Neurological Examination
     The brain, spinal cord and peripheral nerves make up the nervous system.  This system is unique in that, unlike many other parts of the body, it cannot be directly examined, nor can abnormalities be readily detected with routine laboratory tests.
     The purpose of a neurological examination performed by a board certified neurologist is to determine whether the problem affecting the patient is neurological in origin, where in the nervous system the problem has occurred and which of a number of possible diseases is causing the clinical signs.  This information enables more appropriate selection of diagnostic tests, treatment regimen and more accurate prognosis for recovery.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): is a non-invasive imaging technology that allows us to look at the brain and spinal cord in anatomical three dimensional detail without harm to the patient. 
MRI is used to identify brain tumors and vascular accidents, and to localize intervertebral disks and spinal and nerve sheath tumors prior to surgery.
Patients requiring MRI imaging are referred to the Iams Pet Imaging Centers in Vienna Virginia and Raleigh, North Carolina.  Both facilities are equipped with a 1.5 Tesla MRI.  The MRI technicians are experienced in performing MRI on animals and the quality of images is superior.  Dr. Katherman and a board certified veterinary radiologists associated with the Iams Pet Imaging Center interpret the MRI images.  A board certified veterinary anesthesiologist at each center supervises Anesthesia.
If it is difficult for an owner to provide transportation for their pet, Dr. Katherman can arrange to accompany her patient.

 
Seizure Management: Satisfactory control of seizures is often challenging.  Each individual patient responds differently to anticonvulsant medication.  To achieve optimal seizure control, the patient may be placed on one or several anticonvulsants.  Drug levels are performed to assure optimal seizure control with the least amount of side- effects.  
 
Neurosurgery: The spinal cord is a vital structure which unlike other organs, has a limited ability to repair itself. Animals affected with cervical vertebral instability (Wobblers Disease), atlanto-axial subluxation-equina syndrome, cervical and thoraco-lumbar intervertebral disk herniation, spinal tumors, and vertebral fractures are among those patients for whom neurosurgery offers the best chance of recovery.
   
Radiology Services:  Our on-site, modern digital X-ray equipment provides high quality radiographs.  Radiographs can be easily sent to any specialist or regular veterinarian.  
   
Electrodiagnostic Examinations:   EMG/Nerve Conduction studies are performed on site. The patients are evaluated under a general anesthesia for accurate values and patient comfort. EMG permits visual and auditory evaluation of the electrical activity of muscles. Nerve conduction velocity studies are performed to assess nerve function.  Electrodiagnostic evaluation along with nerve muscle biopsy, neurological examination findings and patient history can lead to a more accurate diagnosis.

Laboratory:  Both in house and reference laboratory testing are available.   Laboratory tests for  diseases which affect the nervous system are sent to specific laboratories that specialize in that area or disease. The turn around time for most tests is fairly short and the results are reliable.  

Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response Testing (B.A.E.R):  Our in house BAER testing is used to identify carriers of congenital hereditary deafness in those breeds with known predisposition. Dalmatians, Bull Terriers, Australian Heelers, Australian Shepherds, English Setters, Old English Sheepdogs, English Bulldog,and  Jack Russell Terriers, as well as other breeds which have the blue merle coloring or white hair coats, including white cats with blue eyes.  BAER testing can also be of value in identifying the presence of abnormalities in the brain which cause hearing loss.