For Emergencies:
Bridge Referrals Veterinary Centre is pleased to announce the team has successfully performed a second craniectomy surgery. This is a rare and highly specialised procedure that showcases commitment and ability to provide advanced care for pets in need. In this case a craniectomy was performed after Meningioma was presented to the clinical team in a cat.
Meningioma is the most common primary brain tumour in cats and develops slowly from the layers which surround the brain. They are typically benign, but due to the skull, this growth puts pressure on the brain which results in slow, progressive clinical signs including abnormal gait, circling behaviour, vocalising and a lack of or reduction in reflexes.
The lovely Luna!
Lovely Luna’s Journey
Bridge Referrals recently had the privilege of helping Lovely Luna, a charming feline who presented to them with concerning symptoms. Luna was referred to us after her family noticed changes in her behaviour and movement. She exhibited typical clinical signs of neurological distress, including episodes of circling, reduced appetite and she often seemed grumpy.
Luna was booked in with our Neurologist, Alison Kennair BVMS CertAVP (GSAS) MRCVS and an MRI scan was conducted. Examining the brain and spinal cord, revealed a large, contrast enhancing mass of the right forebrain consistent with Meningioma.
An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is an important imaging modality that provides excellent detail of the brain and spine. It is particularly valuable in complex cases, such as Luna’s, as it offers high-resolution images of soft tissues, helping in identifying abnormalities like tumours, inflammation, or structural issues. This detailed imaging is crucial for surgical planning, ensuring the best possible outcomes by allowing surgeons to visualise and strategise with precision.
Luna’s MRI scan – see the mass in yellow circle!
The Solution: Craniectomy at Bridge Referrals
Due to the nature of Luna’s condition, a craniectomy was recommended. A surgical procedure in which a portion of the skull is removed to access the brain. Although this surgery is rarely performed in veterinary medicine, it offered Luna the best chance of recovery.
This intricate procedure was carefully executed by the multidisciplinary team at Bridge Referrals, bringing together expertise from across the referral centre to ensure Luna received the best care possible. The surgery was a success, with the mass completely removed.
Post-surgery, Luna was closely monitored in the critical care unit for 48 hours, where she received round-the-clock care from skilled veterinary nurses and vets. Her strength and resilience shone through, and she made excellent progress during her recovery.
Luna during her recovery at home!
After just two days of intensive care, Luna was ready to go home to her loving owners, who were overjoyed to have their beloved companion back. Her recovery is a testament to the dedication of the team and the advanced treatments available at Bridge Referrals.
Bridge Referrals commitment to Advanced Care
Histology of the mass confirmed Meningioma and since her surgery, Luna has made a full recovery. She has shown no clinical signs associated with complications. Her mum is over the moon with how far she has come following on from her surgery, she reports that Luna is doing extremely well and has since returned to her normal happy self!
Luna’s journey highlights Bridge Referrals commitment to bring the best treatments to pets in the North East. From cutting-edge surgical procedures like craniectomies to the compassionate care provided during recovery, they’re dedicated to improving the lives of pets and supporting their families.
Luna is now back to her normal, happy self!
