The Diagnostic Imaging service at the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) consists of radiologists who are specially trained to interpret x-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and other specialized images of all species. Findings from these studies are integral to the diagnosis, treatment, and follow up of your pet. To learn more about the diagnostic imaging service at the OVC, please click here.
ON HOLD FOR RECRUITMENT – Evaluating the Effect of Minimally Invasive Surgery on the Intracranial Pressure in Dogs
Scientific Title: The Effect of Laparoscopy on Intracranial Pressure as Measured by Optic Nerve Sheath Diameter
Study Investigator: Dr. Ryan Appleby
Graduate Student: Dr. Kevin Mitchell (DVSc)
Minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopy offer benefits such as less pain and quicker recovery, but they can also increase pressure inside the skull. This pressure change has been studied in humans but not in dogs. The optical nerve sheath contains cerebral spinal fluid and when intracranial pressure increases, the walls of the sheath expand. Ultrasound can be used to measure the changes in the optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD). Understanding how intracranial pressure changes affect dogs could help with anesthesia and surgery planning for laparoscopic procedures in veterinary medicine.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Healthy female dogs (>10kg) undergoing an open spay
- Healthy dogs (>10kg) undergoing a laproscopic spay or spay and gastropexy