She brought Kiddu to Michigan State University for a neurological consultation with Curtis Probst, DVM, DACVS, DACVIM (Neurology). “I conducted a neurological exam, and immediately observed Kiddu’s limitations,” Probst said, “His adversive syndrome (a condition that causes animals to circle, often toward the side of a lesion) was apparent, and his mood was very reserved.” In cats, behavioral changes of this type often suggest a neurological problem.

Probst ordered an MRI to investigate further. The results showed a large mass in the parietal lobe of Kiddu’s brain—a mass Probst suspected was a meningioma, a non-malignant tumor originating in the meninges. While meningiomas are benign masses, the growth, tumor size, and the damage it inflicts can still be fatal. In dogs, meningiomas tend to be invasive, growing into the brain tissue. However, in Kiddu’s case, as with most cats (and people), the tumor was compressive—remaining whole and pushing against his brain tissue rather than invading it.

Probst reviewed Kiddu’s case with Thorington—the tumor was in an accessible area, and Kiddu had a good prognosis if Probst removed the tumor through a craniectomy surgery. Thorington opted for surgery.

Read more about the ow Dr. Probst removed the tumor (Caution: includes some graphic medical detail)

To perform the craniectomy, Probst retracted the tissues from the top of Kiddu’s head in order to remove a piece of skull bone and access his brain. “The tumor was visible right away,” Probst said. He used a periosteal elevator, a spatula-like instrument frequently used in orthopedic surgery, to gently dissect between the tumor and brain tissue. After removing the 16mm x 14 mm tumor, Probst patched Kiddu’s skull opening with acrylic bone cement. Probst chose bone cement over a muscle flap because the meninges is less likely to adhere to it. If Kiddu’s tumor returns it will likely return in the same location, a common occurrence with meningiomas, it will be much easier for surgeons to access the area.

Kiddu’s successful surgery was the first brain surgery on a cat at the Teaching Hospital in more than a decade. He was released several days after the surgery, and returned a month later for a post-operative check. This time, not only was his feisty personality back, but Kiddu was able to walk across the room in a straight line. Back at home, Thornington says she and Kiddu are enjoying every day together.

November 22, 2013