5 Soft Tissue Surgeries That Pets Commonly Undergo

Pets undergo a multitude of surgeries, from routine elective procedures, such as spay or neuter procedures, to life-saving operations. Soft tissue surgeries, as well as some orthopedic procedures, are commonly performed in general practice hospitals. However, certain soft tissue surgeries are complex procedures that can be performed only in specialty veterinary hospitals. Here are five of the most common soft tissue surgeries performed in general veterinary practices.

 

#1: Spay and neuter surgeries

The most common surgeries performed in general veterinary practices are spays and neuters, sometimes done daily. These surgeries entail the removal of reproductive organs to reduce or eliminate the possibility of certain health and behavior issues in pets. 

#2: Foreign body removal surgery

Pets often ingest objects that can cause blockages, which may lead to the need for surgical intervention. Some of the most commonly retrieved foreign items from pets include those found in their gastrointestinal tracts, such as those seen in cats and dogs.

  • Clothing, especially socks
  • Bones
  • Corn cobs
  • Rubber and plastic toys
  • Hair bands
  • Thread

Dogs are less likely to put random objects in their mouths, while cats have a fascination with string-like objects. However, this can be very dangerous as it can cause a linear foreign body. When this happens, the intestines can become bunched, and the string can cut through them, posing a serious risk to the cat’s health.

 

#3: Mass removal surgery

Pets can develop benign or cancerous masses which can grow quickly and cause problems like restricted movement, breathing or eating. These masses can occur on the skin or inside the ears, mouth, or abdomen and can be removed.

 

#4: Bladder stone removal surgery

Bladder stones are quite common in pets and are caused by various factors like urinary tract disease, inappropriate diet, insufficient hydration, or genetics. Depending on their composition, some stones can be dissolved through a prescribed diet, but others require surgery and complete cleansing of the bladder to prevent a urinary blockage.

 

#5: Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome repair surgery

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) repair surgeries are increasingly performed as pug, English bulldog, and French bulldog breeds gain popularity. Flat-faced pets might require surgery to improve their breathing by opening their nostrils, shortening their soft palate, or removing laryngeal saccules.

If you have any queries regarding the soft tissue surgery that your pet is going to undergo, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for clarifications.