Below are some examples of how state of the art minimally invasive techniques are being used to help animals...

Tumors
Due to the stoic nature of most of our domestic animals, tumors are often very advanced at the time of diagnosis. Traditional therapies including surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy may not be viable options depending on tumor location and size. SEVS sponsored procedures are helping these animals. Under x-ray guidance, a catheter is placed directly into the blood vessels that supply the cancer. Tumor killing agents are then injected directly into the malignancy.

Liver shunts
Portosystemic shunts, or liver shunts, are abnormal vascular communications that result in varying degrees of illness. Surgery is currently considered the treatment of choice; however it is a risky procedure with high a high complication rate even in the best hands. SEVS sponsored techniques have been used successfully to avoid the complications associated with the traditional surgical procedures. Instead of surgery, metal devices can be placed into the liver under image guidance. These devices redirect blood flow into the liver and alleviate the animal's symptoms.

Collapsing trachea
Tracheal collapse is a relatively common abnormality in small and toy breed dogs that is due to early loss of the supporting structures. Breathing can be so difficult as to become life threatening. When medical treatment fails, some animals may be candidates for surgery. However, surgical procedures can have significant complications. SEVS sponsored procedures involve the placement of a device that improves breathing without surgery.

Nose bleeds
Uncontrollable nosebleeds, or "intractable epistaxis", can be a life threatening condition. When medical treatment fails, a surgeon can block off the arteries going to the nose. This is an invasive procedure and recurrence is not uncommon. Using a technique similar to that described above to treat tumors, a catheter is placed into the blood vessels supplying the nose and powerful agents can be given to stop the bleeding. Unlike surgery which can only be performed once, this technique can be repeated if the problem recurs.

Vascular access
Cancer is just one type of chronic illness that requires animals to have frequent IV (intravenous) lines for medications. These may be painful and difficult to place. Using x-rays and ultrasound guidance, a device can be placed under the skin that allows an animal to receive medications and fluids without ever needing an IV again.

Looking towards the future...
Minimally invasive procedures, such as those being pioneered by the support of SEVS, have revolutionized the treatment of many human diseases. We are just beginning to realize that potential in veterinary medicine. In the future, animals may benefit from procedures that remove blood clots from vessels, treat blockages in kidneys, treat heart disease, and allow safe biopsies from diseased organs. Please contact us to find out more about what the future may look like...

Bobo was suffering from a massive sinus tumor. The pain and swelling that it caused made it difficult for him to breath or even open his eye.

This is Bobo several weeks following an embolization procedure in which there is now decreased swelling evident.

Embolization coils shown as they are deployed through a catheter. These coils are used stop the flow of blood through abnormal vessels.

Close up view of embolization coils. These are made in different sizes and shapes to allow them to fit in almost any blood vessel.