Neurology is a unique combination of basic as well as advanced diagnostics. The first step in developing a clinical picture of a neurology defining a problem is a full neurologic examination (see the Services section of site).  Diseases can frequently be classified to either the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) or the peripheral nervous system (the nerves running to muscles and other body organs). Advanced diagnostics can be performed with neurodiagnostic equipment which tests the function of the peripheral nerves and muscles and can only be performed in a few referral facilities across the country. This graph is a measurement of electrical impulse flow down a nerve.

Advanced imaging is often necessary to gain a better appreciation of the central nervous system.  VSH has a CT scanner which is available 24 hours a day.  We are also fortunate to have access to a local MRI scanner which can tell us about subtle differences in nerve tissue.
This photo shows a longitudinal  cross section of a dog’s head (nose to the left) with the brain occupying the large oval area in the middle of the picture.  The area of brain to the left with the light color is a brain tumor.