Neurosurgery

Sepetmber 10th and 11th 2026

This course is ideal for veterinarians with a foundational understanding of neurology and surgery who wish to enhance their clinical decision-making and operative skills in veterinary neurosurgery.

Learning Objectives:

Neurological Examination:

• Systematic approach to the neurological evaluation of small animal patients, with emphasis on lesion localization and differential diagnosis.

Neurodiagnostics:

• Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collection techniques, analysis, and interpretation
• Diagnostic imaging: Indications and interpretation of X-Ray, CT, and MRI

Thoracolumbar Disc Disease:

• Clinical signs, differential diagnoses, and staging
• Decision-making in conservative vs. surgical management
• Principles of surgical planning and approach selection

Lumbosacral Disc Disease:

• Diagnostic strategies and clinical presentation
• Comparative discussion of medical and surgical treatment options
• Pre-operative planning and patient selection for decompressive surgery

Practical Training:

Wet Lab:

• Hands-on training in CSF collection (cisternal and lumbar puncture) and epidural injection techniques
• Surgical procedures on cadaveric specimens including thoracolumbar hemilaminectomy, mini-hemilaminectomy, corpectomy, disc fenestration, and lumbosacral dorsal laminectomy

Dry Lab (3D Simulation):

• Skill development using 3D-printed spinal models and drill guides provided by Vet3D for pre-surgical planning and instrument handling