High quality imaging and surgical technique are required to completely identify and treat a neurological problem.  The CT and/or MR images obtained prior to surgery will be the “blue print” for the neurosurgeon.  Most neurological surgeries are decompressive, meaning that a tumor, disk material or dislocated bone is pressing on nearby healthy tissue such as the spinal cord, nerve roots or brain matter causing neurological deficits and possibly pain.  The purpose of the surgery is to reduce this compression and alleviate the patient’s signs.  Most surgeries at the Veterinary Neurological Center are performed within 2-3 hours.  Patients are closely monitored during and after anesthesia.  Medical treatment before, during and after surgery is necessary in order to provide the greatest probability for full patient recovery.