5 Pet Soft Tissue Surgeries
General veterinary hospitals perform a variety of surgeries on pets, including routine procedures like spaying or neutering, as well as more serious operations that can save a pet’s life. While many soft tissue and orthopedic procedures can be done at a general practice, there are some complex soft tissue surgeries that require the specialized care of a veterinary specialist. Below are five common soft tissue surgeries that are performed in general veterinary practices.
#1: Spay and neuter surgeries
At general veterinary practices, spaying and neutering are the most frequently performed surgeries. These surgeries involve the removal of reproductive organs and are aimed at reducing or eliminating many health and behavior problems in pets.
#2: Foreign body removal surgery
Both cats and dogs have a tendency to eat things that can cause blockages, resulting in the recovery of many items from their digestive systems. The most frequently removed foreign objects from pets include:
- Clothing, especially socks
- Bones
- Corn cobs
- Rubber and plastic toys
- Hair bands
- Thread
Dogs are pickier about what they chew on, whereas cats have a great interest in string-like objects. This can result in a dangerous condition known as a linear foreign body, where the intestines can bunch up and the string may cut through them.
#3: Mass removal surgery
Pets can develop both cancerous and non-cancerous masses, which can cause issues like restricted movement, breathing, or eating. Lumps and bumps can grow rapidly and become ulcerated. However, masses can be removed from various parts such as inside the ears, mouth, or abdomen.
#4: Bladder stone removal surgery
Bladder stones are a common occurrence in pets due to factors such as urinary tract disease, poor diet, insufficient water intake, or genetics. Prescription diets can dissolve stones of a specific composition, but surgical removal and bladder flushing are necessary for others to prevent urinary blockage.
#5: Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome repair surgery
BOAS repair surgeries are becoming more frequent as the popularity of brachycephalic breeds such as pugs, English bulldogs, and French bulldogs increases. These flat-faced pets may require surgery to improve their breathing by opening their nostrils, shortening their soft palate, or removing laryngeal saccules.
If you have any inquiries regarding your pet’s upcoming soft tissue surgery, feel free to reach out to our team for clarification.