Surgical removal of an ependymoma from the third ventricle of a cat

Abstract

A 10-year-old spayed domestic shorthaired cat was presented for behavioural changes, signs suggestive of visual deficits and aimless circling. Neuro-ophthalmological examination suggested the cat had central blindness. CT scans following administration of iohexol demonstrated a contrast-enhancing mass in the vicinity of the third ventricle resulting in obstructive hydrocephalus. Following rostral tentorial craniotomy and incision through the cerebral cortex, the third ventricle was approached via the dilated left lateral ventricle. An ependymoma was seen through a dorsocaudolateral incision into the third ventricle, and removed by gentle manipulation and suction. The cat recovered unremarkably, regaining normal vision and behaviour.