General Surgery

Everything You Need to Know About Veterinary General Surgery

Introduction: What is Veterinary General Surgery and How Does it Work?

Veterinary general surgery is a broad field that encompasses the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases and conditions in animals. It involves the use of surgical techniques to treat a wide range of conditions, including fractures, tumors, congenital defects, and infections. Our highly trained veterinarians perform surgical procedures on both dogs and cats. They also provide pre-operative care such as diagnostic testing, medication management, physical therapy, wound care, nutrition counseling, and post-operative care. Additionally, our veterinary professionals provide advice on pet health care as well as preventive measures to ensure the long-term health of our patients.

Types of Common Pet Surgeries Including Emergency and Non-Emergency Procedures

Pet owners must be aware of the various types of pet surgeries that their furry family members may require. It is important to understand the different types of pet surgeries, including emergency and non-emergency procedures, in order to ensure that your pet receives the best care possible.

Spay/neuter surgery is one of the most common types of pet surgery. This procedure helps prevent unwanted litters and can help reduce aggressive behavior in both cats and dogs. Other common pet surgeries include dental cleanings, tumor removals, eye surgeries, and orthopedic procedures such as ACL repairs.

Emergency pet care is also available for those times when your pet needs immediate medical attention. Common emergency procedures include wound repair, foreign body removal, fracture repairs, and life-saving treatments for poisoning or severe trauma.

By understanding the various types of pet surgeries available today, you can make sure that your pet receives the best possible care when they need it most.

What to Expect Before, During & After a Pet Surgery

Pet surgery can be a stressful and intimidating experience for both pet owners and their furry friends. It's important to be prepared before, during, and after the procedure to ensure a successful recovery for your pet.

Before Surgery:

• Consultation: Pet owners will have a consultation with the veterinarian to discuss the need for surgery, the procedure itself, and any preoperative instructions.

• Preoperative instructions: The veterinarian may provide specific instructions, such as fasting the pet for a certain period before the surgery or withholding water for a specific amount of time.

• Pre-anesthetic evaluation: Depending on the pet's age and health status, the veterinarian may recommend pre-anesthetic bloodwork or additional diagnostic tests to assess the pet's overall health and determine the appropriate anesthesia protocol.

• Consent forms: Pet owners will be asked to sign consent forms, acknowledging their understanding of the procedure, potential risks, and agreeing to proceed with the surgery.

• Preparing the pet: On the day of the surgery, pet owners may be advised to bring their pet to the veterinary clinic/hospital early in the morning. The pet may need to be bathed or have specific grooming requirements before the surgery.
  
  

During Surgery:

• Anesthesia: The pet will be given anesthesia to ensure they are unconscious and pain-free during the procedure. The veterinarian and a team of veterinary technicians will closely monitor the pet's vital signs throughout the surgery.

• Surgery itself: The surgical procedure will be performed by the veterinarian or a veterinary surgeon. The length and complexity of the surgery will vary depending on the specific procedure being performed.

• Monitoring: The veterinary team will monitor the pet's vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and temperature, throughout the surgery. They may also use monitoring equipment to track the pet's ECG (electrocardiogram) and respiratory status.
  
  

After Surgery:

• Recovery period: After the surgery, the pet will be moved to a designated recovery area, where they will be monitored until they regain consciousness. They may be placed in a warm and comfortable environment to aid in their recovery.

• Postoperative care: The veterinary team will provide appropriate postoperative care, which may include administering pain medication, managing any surgical drains or bandages, and providing instructions on wound care or incision site monitoring.

• Observation and monitoring: The pet may need to stay at the veterinary clinic for a period of time, depending on the type of surgery and their overall condition. During this time, the veterinary team will continue to monitor the pet's vital signs, administer medications as needed, and assess their overall recovery progress.

• Discharge instructions: When the pet is deemed stable and ready to go home, the veterinarian will provide detailed instructions to the pet owner regarding medication administration, dietary restrictions, activity limitations, and any follow-up appointments required.

• Follow-up appointments: In some cases, the pet may need to return to the veterinary clinic for suture removal, wound rechecks, or further evaluation to ensure a complete recovery.
  
  

It's important to note that the exact procedures and protocols may vary depending on the specific surgery and other factors. Pet owners should always consult with their veterinarian for personalized information and instructions regarding their pet's surgery.

The Benefits of Veterinary General Surgery for Your Pet’s Health & Well-being

Veterinary general surgery is an important part of maintaining your pet’s health and well-being. It can help reduce the risk factors associated with animal surgeries, and shorten the post-surgery recovery time frame. This type of surgery is beneficial for both animals and their owners, as it can help improve the quality of life for both parties. By understanding the benefits that veterinary general surgery can provide, you can make a more informed decision about your pet’s health care needs.