Five Types of Soft Tissue Surgeries Commonly Performed on Pets
General veterinary hospitals commonly perform a variety of surgeries on pets, ranging from routine elective procedures like spaying or neutering to critical life-saving surgeries. While soft tissue surgeries and some orthopedic procedures can be carried out by general practice hospitals, certain complex soft tissue surgeries require specialized veterinary hospitals. This article will highlight five common soft tissue surgeries performed in general veterinary hospitals.
#1: Spay and neuter surgeries
The surgeries that involve the removal of reproductive organs, known as spays and neuters, are frequently performed in general veterinary practices. They are effective in preventing a variety of health and behavior problems in pets, and are performed on a daily basis.
#2: Foreign body removal surgery
Cats and dogs often eat things that can cause blockages in their digestive system, resulting in the need to remove foreign objects. Some of the things that are commonly removed from pets include:
- Clothing, especially socks
- Bones
- Corn cobs
- Rubber and plastic toys
- Hair bands
- Thread
Dogs are usually more careful about the things they chew on, while cats tend to enjoy playing with string-like objects. However, this can be very dangerous as it can cause a blockage in their intestines and the string can cause damage by cutting into them.
#3: Mass removal surgery
Pets can develop either benign or cancerous masses that can cause issues like rapid growth, ulcers, and restricted movement or breathing. Masses can appear on the skin, inside the ears or mouth, or in the abdomen, and these can be removed.
#4: Bladder stone removal surgery
Bladder stones are a common issue in pets that are often caused by urinary tract disease, a poor diet, lack of hydration, or genetics. Prescription diets can dissolve stones made of certain materials, but other types will require surgery and thorough flushing of the bladder to prevent urinary blockages.
#5: Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome repair surgery
Repair surgeries for brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) are increasingly common as flat-faced breeds such as pugs, English bulldogs, and French bulldogs become more popular. These pets may require procedures that involve opening their nostrils, shortening their soft palate, or removing laryngeal saccules to improve their breathing.
If you have any questions about the soft tissue surgery for your pet that’s coming up, please contact our team and we’ll provide you with the answers.