Specialist surgery saves dog with rare brain tumour

Vets at the Hospital for Small Animals have performed a challenging surgery to remove a dog’s brain tumour.

In the complex procedure, veterinary neurosurgeons removed a large mass from the base of a Spaniel’s brain, through a small hole in the top of his mouth. 

The Hospital is the first in Scotland, and one of only five centres in the UK, that has successfully performed surgery of this kind in dogs. It is also one of a handful in Europe that offer both radiotherapy and surgery as treatment options for cats and dogs with tumours of this type. 

Complex case

Lordy, an eight-year-old cocker spaniel, was referred to the Hospital’s Neurology Service with multiple complex neurological problems.

An MRI scan identified a large tumour on Lordy’s pituitary gland, at the base of his brain. Further tests confirmed that Lordy also had Cushing’s syndrome, a potentially fatal condition involving over-production of a key hormone, due to the mass. 

Specialist surgery

A follow-up CT scan suggested that the tumour was growing and could invade other parts of Lordy’s brain and spinal column, which could lead to additional problems. 

In consultation with the dog's owners, it was agreed that the best option for Lordy was for vets to surgically remove the tumour in a procedure known as a transsphenoidal hypophysectomy. 

In preparation for this technically challenging surgery, a 3D-printed model was produced using CT images of Lordy’s brain and tumour. This was fitted onto the roof of Lordy’s mouth during surgery, to help the vets locate the best access point to locate the tumour during the operation. Surgeons then drilled a 5mm hole through Lordy’s soft palate and the base of his skull, allowing them to access and remove the tumour.

Positive outcome 

Lordy was under the watchful eye of the Hospital’s Anaesthesia and Emergency and Critical Care Services both during and after surgery. The spaniel recovered quickly and was discharged three days later. Follow-up MRI scans three and six months later showed no sign of the tumour or damage to brain tissues. Lordy remains a regular visitor to the Hospital’s Internal Medicine Service, for continued monitoring and care.