Overcoming Neurophobia: The Neuro Exam

On the final episode of season 2, host Daniella Dos Santos and neurology referral clinician Emma Suiter explore the concept of 'neurophobia' - the fear of clinical neurology. Emma shares practical tips on performing the neurological exam efficiently in first-opinion practice. By simplifying the process and prioritising, learn how to gain confidence in managing neurological cases and provide the best patient care.

Emma Suiter

Emma graduated from the RVC in 2016, after which she spent 2 years in first opinion practice before undertaking a rotating internship at the University of Bristol. She completed a neurology internship, followed by a residency at Pride Veterinary Referrals. She has recently moved to Blaise Referrals in Birmingham. Her clinical interests are neurosurgery, in particular, decompressive spinal surgery and spinal stabilisation

Daniella Dos Santos

Daniella graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in 2012 having previously obtained a degree in Molecular Genetics from Kings College. She has since worked in first opinion, small animal and exotic pet practices across the Southeast. In 2019, she became the youngest-ever President of the British Veterinary Association, leading the profession through the height of the pandemic. During her time as President, she was instrumental in the association’s Diversity and Inclusion work, as well as the development and launch of the Good Workplaces Policy. Daniella was the recipient of the RCVS Inspiration Award 2021 for her leadership and became an RCVS Fellow in 2021 for Meritorious Contributions to the Profession. She is a trustee of the PetPlan Charitable Trust.

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Links:

For clinical advice and further information about neurology referral services at Blaise:https://www.blaise-referrals.com/vet-hub/our-services/neurology

Contact Emma and the team at Blaise Referrals: birmingham.neurology@blaise-referrals.com

7 steps of the neurological examination: https://www.vin.com/apputil/content/defaultadv1.aspx?pId=19840&catId=105891&id=8249840&ind=464&objTypeID=17#:~:text=The%20neurological%20examination%20can%20be%20further%20divided%20into%20the%20following,%2C%20and%20(7)%20Nociception. 

The grading system for IVDD: https://www.dachshund-ivdd.uk/research/grading-scale-references/ 

BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Neurology Chapter 1 for the Neurological Examination