Soft Tissue Surgery

Soft tissue surgical procedures for pets are similar to those for humans but are specifically performed on animals to address various conditions or injuries. These procedures are typically conducted by veterinarians who specialise in veterinary surgery.

Here are some common soft tissue surgical procedures performed on pets:

• Spay and Neuter Surgeries: These procedures involve the removal of the reproductive organs (ovaries and uterus in females, testes in males) to prevent unwanted pregnancies and provide health benefits.
• Tumour or Mass Removal: Soft tissue tumours or abnormal growths may need to be surgically removed to prevent further complications or malignancy. Biopsy may be performed to determine the nature of the growth before surgery.
• Wound Repair: When pets have lacerations, punctures, or other wounds, surgical repair may be necessary. This involves cleaning the wound, suturing (stitching) or stapling it closed, and providing appropriate aftercare.
• Abdominal Surgeries: Various abdominal procedures are performed on pets, including exploratory surgeries to investigate and diagnose internal conditions, gastrointestinal surgeries to address foreign body obstructions or tumours, bladder stone removal, and urinary tract surgeries.
• Orthopaedic Soft Tissue Surgeries: Some soft tissue procedures are done in conjunction with orthopaedic surgeries to address conditions such as torn ligaments (e.g., cranial cruciate ligament rupture) or luxating patella (knee cap dislocation).
• Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome Corrections: Brachycephalic dog breeds with breathing difficulties may undergo soft tissue surgeries to alleviate obstructions in the upper airway, such as stenotic nares (narrowed nostrils) or elongated soft palate.
• Reconstruction and Plastic Surgery: In cases of traumatic injuries, extensive wounds, or defects, reconstructive or plastic surgery techniques may be employed to restore functionality and aesthetics.

These are just a few examples of soft tissue surgical procedures for pets. The specific procedure performed depends on the pet’s condition and the recommendations of the veterinarian. Pet owners should consult with us to determine the best course of action for their pet’s surgical needs.

Finding a lump on your pet can be a cause for concern, but it is important to approach it with a calm and proactive mind-set. Here are some steps to follow if you discover a lump on your pet:

• Observe and Document: Take note of the location, size, shape, and any other noticeable characteristics of the lump. Monitor it closely over a period of days to see if it changes in size or appearance.
• Consult your Veterinarian: Schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible. We can examine the lump, evaluate your pet’s overall health, and provide a diagnosis. It is crucial to get a professional opinion to determine if the lump is benign (non-cancerous) or potentially malignant (cancerous).
• Diagnostic Tests: Depending on our assessment, we may recommend further diagnostic tests. These can include fine needle aspirate (FNA), where a small sample is extracted from the lump using a needle, or a biopsy, where a tissue sample is surgically removed for examination. These tests help determine the nature of the lump and guide treatment decisions.
• Follow Veterinary Recommendations: Based on the diagnostic results, we will provide treatment options or further recommendations. This might involve surgical removal of the lump, monitoring the lump for changes, or additional testing.
• Remain Proactive: Regardless of the lump’s nature, continue to monitor your pet’s overall health and watch for any changes in behaviour, appetite, or the lump itself. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to catch any potential health issues early on.

Remember that finding a lump does not automatically mean it is cancerous. Lumps can be caused by various factors, such as infections, cysts, fatty tumours (lipomas), or benign growths. However, it is always best to have any abnormal lump examined by a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and appropriate course of action.