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
Spays and neuters are the most common surgeries performed in general veterinary practices—often daily. These two surgeries remove reproductive organs to greatly minimize or eliminate the potential for many pet health and behavior issues.

#2: Foreign body removal surgery
Many items have been recovered from pets’ gastrointestinal tracts because cats and dogs frequently eat items that become blocked. Some of the most common foreign bodies removed
from pets include:

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

Dogs are more discriminating about items they put in their mouths, but cats are typically fascinated with string-like items that result in a linear foreign body that can be exceptionally hazardous because the intestines become bunched, and the string can saw through them.

#3: Mass removal surgery
Pets develop a variety of masses that are benign or cancerous. Lumps and bumps can grow rapidly, become ulcerated, or develop in a spot where they restrict movement, breathing, or eating. Masses can be removed from the skin or inside the ears, mouth, or abdomen.

#4: Bladder stone removal surgery
Bladder stones in pets occur relatively commonly, largely because of urinary tract disease, improper diet, inadequate hydration, or genetics. Stones of a certain composition can be dissolved with a prescription diet, but others need surgical removal and thorough bladder flushing to prevent a urinary blockage.

#5: Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome repair surgery
As brachycephalic breeds, like pugs, English bulldogs, and French bulldogs, become more popular, brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) repair surgeries are becoming more common. Flat-faced pets may need surgery to open their nostrils, shorten their soft palate, or remove laryngeal saccules to enable easier breathing.

Do you have questions about your pet’s upcoming soft tissue surgery? If so, contact our team for answers.