Neurology

The ESAVS Neurology program consists of 5 one-week modules. The course masters and instructors are Diplomates in Neurology (ECVN), Surgery (ECVS), Diagnostic Imaging (ECVDI), and Pathology (ECVP) and internationally recognized specialists in their field.

Neurology I – Neurological exam and neuroanatomical localization 

This course focuses on the principles of the neurological examination and aims to refresh knowledge of the relevant fundamentals of neuroanatomy, neurophysiology and pathophysiology of the central and peripheral nervous system. In the practical case-based sessions the attendants have intensive training to define the neuroanatomical lesion localization and learn about common neurological diseases seen in private practice.

Neurology II – Spinal and peripheral nervous system diseases

In this module the already acquired knowledge from Neurology I is deepened by an intensive case-based training. Neurology II aims to provide a logical step-wise approach to the most common diseases particularly of the spinal cord and peripheral nervous system. The practical sessions will focus on further diagnostics such as radiography, CT/MRI, electrodiagnostics, CSF evaluation, and evaluation of biopsies as well as therapeutic options for the diseases.

Neurology III – Intracranial and vestibular diseases

The aim of this course is to develop a logical step-wise approach to common neurological disease conditions and give guidance for a self-reliant work-up of neurological cases particularly with intracranial and vestibular diseases. The intensive training is structured as a combination of lectures and case-based oriented learning by further diagnostics and work-up of neurological cases in small groups. This approach will enable the attending veterinarian to manage all common diseases of the brain and vestibular system.

Neurology IV – Neurosurgery

This course is dedicated to neurosurgical patients and neurosurgery. The course will be divided into lectures that provide the participants with the necessary theoretical knowledge to understand and to perform high quality neurosurgery and is constructed as an interactive session that allows in depth discussion. The practical part is divided in video-based case presentations and a neurosurgical Wetlab.

Neurology V – Neuropathology & MRI Interpretation

The principal learning objective of this module is to acquire a basic understanding of diagnostic neuropathology. Participants are trained in lectures and practicals to recognize the major lesion patterns such as malformations, inflammatory lesions, tumors of the nervous system, trauma and infarcts of the brain and spinal cord, toxic-metabolic diseases, and degenerative diseases on gross and histological preparations of CNS tissue. The structural changes are compared to corresponding MR images with the aim to apply the acquired knowledge to the interpretation of MR images.

Neurology – MRI Neuroimaging

This course provides a comprehensive exploration of advanced neuroimaging techniques and interpretation. Key topics include examination techniques such as signal-to-noise optimization, spin echo, gradient echo, and diffusion-weighted imaging. Participants will learn to analyze patterns and lesion distributions, including intra- and extraaxial brain neoplasms, inflammatory diseases, and metabolic-toxic disorders. The course also covers vascular lesions, trauma, hemorrhage, anomalies, and malformations affecting the brain and spinal cord. Sessions on standardized reading, brain spectroscopy, and artifact management enhance diagnostic accuracy. Participants will engage in individual case studies and group discussions to apply knowledge practically. The program concludes with reviews of learning objectives and collaborative discussions to solidify key concepts.

Upcoming courses