A comprehensive neurological exam may be recommended if your dog has:
Done by your local vet. This rules out metabolic causes for the seizure.
A neurological exam evaluates your dog’s reflexes, coordination, strength, and responses to help determine whether seizures may be associated with an underlying neurological problem.
Based on the neurological examination, an MRI may be recommended. MRI will determine if there are any structural changes in the brain including tumors or inflammatory lesions.
CSF may be recommended after MRI when signs of inflammation or infection are detected by the MRI scan.
Comprehensive Neurological Exam
Review of History and prior records
Determine if an MRI is needed
High Field 1.5T MRI
Anesthesia and monitoring
Contrast administered when indicated
Radiology Report within 48hrs
Coordination with your veterinarian
In some cases, the radiologist may recommend a CSF test after reviewing the MRI scan to help identify the cause of your dog’s symptoms. This test uses a small sample of the fluid around the brain and spinal cord to look for signs of inflammation, infection, or other neurologic conditions. This is a short procedure and can be scheduled after the scan is completed.
Veterinary MRI is often performed inside a large specialty hospital with substantial overhead. VOMRI uses a focused, outpatient model to concentrate specifically on MRI. This lowers our costs and we pass that saving along to owners.
No. Our magnet is a hospital-grade, high-field 1.5T 16x GE Excite used in most human hospitals. Our scans are interpreted by board-certified veterinary radiologists and available within 48hrs. And our medical staff is composed of experienced veterinary doctors and techs, ensuring your pet remains safe and cared for throughout the process.
We scan primarily on Sundays. We try to accommodate our owners with same-week scheduling. You can expect to drop off your pet in the morning around 10am and pick up by early afternoon.
Not every dog with pain, weakness or a seizure automatically requires advanced MRI imaging. Our goal is to image the right dog, in the right area at the right time. That is why we offer a neuro/ortho exam on cases where there is a question. Some common symptoms that may require an MRI:
See our Surgical Options Page. If the MRI identifies a condition that may require surgery, our Medical Director, Dr. Mark Soderstrom, can review the case and discuss available options with you and your veterinarian. Dr. Soderstrom performs neurological, spinal, orthopedic, oncologic and soft-tissue surgery through Soderstrom Veterinary Surgery. You may also have the MRI study and report transferred to any surgeon you choose.
Yes. We regularly forward our scans and reports to larger neurology groups to use in surgical and nonsurgical treatment.
We are located in the Biltmore area of Phoenix off the 51 and Glendale Ave exit.
