KANSAS CITY, Mo., June 17, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Veterinarian Dr. Billie Deam of Animal Clinic of Boardwalk Square in Kansas City has successfully removed large nerve sheath tumors from several dogs. According to Dr. Deam, many of these dogs were denied treatment at other veterinary hospitals because the tumors were considered too difficult to remove. Although nerve sheath tumors (NTS) are not common, they usually afflict older dogs and can cause pain and lead to lameness or facial paralysis, depending on the tumor's location. She says that although NTSs can recur around the site of the initial tumor, removal gives pets the best chance of living comfortably.
Dr. Deam's Kansas City dog and cat surgery center uses laser surgery to remove NTSs. "Nerve sheath tumors grow on the myelin sheath, which is the protective covering around peripheral nerves. Whether it is benign or malignant, it's important to remove the tumor because it takes pressure off of the nerve to relieve pain. If the tumor is malignant— if we can get enough of the surrounding tissue, it can cut the chances of spreading, especially if it is caught early. Laser surgery is great for precision and also reduces bleeding, inflammation and recovery times. So it's a good option for dogs suffering with neurofibrosarcoma, malignant schwannoma, or hemangiopericytoma, which are all types of sheath tumors."
Dr. Deam says that owners of older pets should be aware of the symptoms of a possible NTS. Since they often occur on the limbs, dogs or cats with NTS may suffer lameness and muscle atrophy in either the hind or forelimbs, depending on the location of the tumor. Owners should check for abnormal lumps. Sometimes an NTS located in the neck can cause droopiness and paralysis of the eye and face on one side. She urges pet owners who notice any of these symptoms to come in for a complete exam to determine the cause and discuss possible dog and cat surgery options.
According to Dr. Deam, treatments depend largely on the location and type of nerve sheath tumor. She and her team almost always recommend complete removal, both for the comfort of the animal and also for further diagnosis. After the tumor is removed, it can be examined in the lab to determine whether or not the NTS is malignant or benign. If the tumor is benign, removal usually relieves the animal's pain. If it is malignant, Dr. Deam can refer the pet to a veterinary oncologist for further assistance.
She says that pets should not have to suffer from NTSs. "As a veterinarian, if there is anything I can do to help a pet, I will do it. All of the dogs we've removed sheath tumors from feel great now, and that means the world to us."
Animal Clinic of Boardwalk Square provides preventative and sick care for dogs and cats, including routine and complex dog and cat surgery and pet cosmetic surgery.