What Are the Most Common Soft Tissue Surgeries in Pets?

General veterinary hospitals commonly perform a variety of surgeries on pets. These range from ordinary elective surgeries like spaying or neutering procedures to critical ones that save lives. Although general practice hospitals are equipped to perform soft tissue, and some orthopedic surgeries, complex soft tissue surgeries require the expertise and resources of specialty veterinary hospitals. Below are five soft tissue surgeries that are frequently carried out in general veterinary practices. 

#1: Spay and neuter surgeries

The most frequently performed surgeries in general veterinary practices are spays and neuters, and they are performed almost every day. These surgeries involve removing the reproductive organs to prevent various health and behavior issues in pets. 

#2: Foreign body removal surgery

Cats and dogs often eat objects that can cause blockages in their digestive systems. As a result, many items have been removed from pets’ gastrointestinal tracts. Some examples of common foreign objects that are typically removed from pets include:

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

Dogs are pickier about what they chew on, while cats tend to be intrigued by string-like objects that can cause serious harm by getting tangled in their intestines and cutting through them. 

#3: Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome repair surgery

With the rise in popularity of brachycephalic breeds, including pugs, English bulldogs, and French bulldogs, there has been an increase in surgeries for brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). These breeds may require surgery to improve their breathing, which can involve procedures such as opening their nostrils, shortening their soft palate, or removing laryngeal saccules.

#4: Mass removal surgery

Pets can develop masses, which can be either benign or cancerous. These lumps can grow quickly, become open sores, or develop in areas that impede movement, breathing, or eating. Masses can be surgically removed from several locations, such as skin, ears, mouth, or abdomen. 

#5: Bladder stone removal surgery

Bladder stones are a common occurrence in pets and can be caused due to various factors such as urinary tract disease, genetics, improper diet, and inadequate hydration. A prescription diet can help in dissolving certain types of stones, but others require surgical removal and thorough bladder flushing to prevent urinary blockages. 

If you have any questions about your pet’s upcoming soft tissue surgery, please feel free to contact our team for answers.