Soft Tissue Surgery

In cats, an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism) is common, and in some cases medical treatment may be insufficient. In such situations, thyroidectomy may be necessary, particularly in cases of unilateral involvement or thyroid tumors. During surgery, it is essential to preserve the parathyroid glands and the recurrent laryngeal nerve, as damage can lead to complications. Postoperative follow-up with hormone measurements is important to avoid deficiencies or excesses. When patients are appropriately selected, the procedure can significantly improve quality of life.

Disorders of the salivary glands, such as cysts, chronic inflammation, or a ranula, can lead to swallowing difficulties and painful swellings within the oral cavity. When drainage or medical management does not provide lasting results, complete removal of the affected gland and its duct may be required. In cases of ranula, marsupialization may also be performed, in which the cyst is surgically opened to allow permanent drainage. The procedure is generally successful and helps prevent recurrence. Postoperative care focuses on pain management and wound healing within the mouth.

Surgical procedures involving the esophagus are rare but may be necessary in cases of obstruction by foreign bodies, severe strictures, diverticula, or perforations. The esophagus is vulnerable due to its limited blood supply, which can complicate healing. Preoperative evaluation with endoscopy and imaging helps determine the exact location and severity of the condition. During surgery, meticulous suturing techniques are crucial to prevent leakage and infection. Postoperatively, nutritional support is often required via tube feeding until healing is complete.

A lung lobe may be surgically removed in cases of tumors, abscesses, torsion, or severe infections that no longer respond to treatment. The decision is made after thorough diagnostic evaluation using CT or radiography to determine the exact location and extent of the lesion. The procedure is performed via thoracotomy or thoracoscopy, with particular attention to preventing air leakage. Postoperatively, oxygen supplementation and pain management are carefully monitored. With timely diagnosis, the prognosis is often favorable.

A thoracotomy is a traditional open-chest procedure that provides direct access to the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels. Thoracoscopy, by contrast, uses small incisions and a camera, resulting in less pain and faster recovery. Both techniques are used for biopsies, removal of masses, repair of injuries, or placement of drains. The choice depends on the indication, available equipment, and the surgeon’s experience. Strict monitoring during and after the procedure helps prevent complications such as pneumothorax or hemorrhage.

When the diaphragm ruptures, abdominal organs can shift into the thoracic cavity, causing severe respiratory distress. This may result from trauma or a congenital defect. Stabilization with oxygen therapy and intravenous fluids precedes surgery. Surgical repair involves repositioning the organs and closing the defect with secure sutures. Prognosis is good when the animal is operated on in a timely manner.

Chylothorax is an accumulation of lymphatic fluid within the thoracic cavity, often caused by leakage or obstruction of the thoracic duct. It presents with shortness of breath and reduced exercise tolerance. Diagnosis is made via thoracocentesis, during which milky fluid is aspirated and analyzed. Conservative management with dietary modification and medication may be effective in some cases, but surgical treatment, typically involving thoracic duct ligation combined with partial pericardiectomy, is often required. Early treatment prevents chronic pleural changes.

In cases of severe or unclear abdominal problems, an exploratory laparotomy may be required. During this procedure, all abdominal organs are systematically examined to determine the cause of the clinical signs. Biopsies are often taken or lesions treated immediately during the same surgery. This can be life-saving in emergencies such as internal hemorrhage or perforation. Careful postoperative monitoring is essential.

An inguinal hernia occurs when abdominal contents, such as fat or intestines, protrude through an opening in the abdominal wall at the level of the groin. If incarceration occurs, the condition can quickly become life-threatening. Surgical repair involves repositioning the contents and closing the defect. This procedure prevents recurrence and complications. It is seen more frequently in intact female dogs.

An umbilical hernia is often detected in puppies as a soft swelling on the abdominal wall. Small hernias may close spontaneously, but larger defects carry a risk of organ incarceration. Surgical closure is the safest approach. The procedure is relatively straightforward and generally has a good prognosis. In breeding animals, sterilization is often performed at the same time to prevent hereditary transmission.

The spleen is removed in cases of rupture, tumors, or blood disorders that cause life-threatening hemorrhage. Preoperative imaging and blood tests are essential to determine the underlying cause. During surgery, the spleen and its associated blood vessels are carefully ligated and removed. Histopathological examination determines the underlying condition. Many animals recover well and can live normally without a spleen.

In cases of liver masses or locally confined lesions, a portion of the liver may be surgically removed. Thanks to the liver’s regenerative capacity, recovery is often possible. The procedure requires detailed imaging to determine the exact location of the lesion. Adequate hemostasis during surgery is crucial to avoid complications. Postoperatively, liver function is closely monitored.

Surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) is indicated in cases of mucocele, gallstones, or chronic inflammation. Without treatment, there is a risk of rupture and peritonitis. Diagnosis is confirmed preoperatively with ultrasound and sometimes CT. During the procedure, the gallbladder is completely removed, after which the bile ducts retain their function. Recovery is generally good.

Partial removal of the pancreas may be necessary in cases of tumors such as insulinomas. The procedure is technically challenging and carries a risk of postoperative pancreatitis or diabetes mellitus. Careful patient selection and intensive monitoring are therefore essential. Postoperative dietary management and, in some cases, medication support recovery.

When a pet ingests a foreign object, this can lead to obstruction of the stomach or intestines. Depending on the location, a gastrotomy, enterotomy, or colectomy may be performed. Timely removal prevents serious complications such as perforation or peritonitis. Postoperative recovery is generally good, provided no tissue necrosis was present.

Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) occurs when the stomach becomes distended and then twists on its axis. This compromises blood supply and creates an acute, life-threatening situation. Clinical signs include abdominal distension, restlessness, and unproductive retching. Treatment consists of emergency surgery in which the stomach is repositioned and secured (gastropexy). Intensive postoperative monitoring is essential for survival.

A gastropexy is performed preventively in dogs at high risk of gastric torsion or therapeutically during emergency surgery. In this procedure, the stomach is surgically attached to the abdominal wall, significantly reducing the risk of recurrence. The procedure is often combined with sterilization or other abdominal surgeries.

In conditions affecting the colon, such as megacolon, tumors, or severe strictures, a portion of the intestine may need to be removed. The surgery requires meticulous technique to preserve adequate blood supply and intestinal continuity. Postoperative recovery involves intensive care with adapted nutrition and medication.

Tumors, prolapse, or strictures of the anus and rectum often require surgical intervention. These procedures are technically demanding due to limited space and the need to preserve sphincter function. Thorough preparation and postoperative care are crucial to avoid complications such as incontinence.

Chronically inflamed or abscessed anal glands can cause persistent problems. Surgical removal (sacculectomy) provides a definitive solution. The procedure requires precision to prevent nerve damage and incontinence. Recovery is generally good, with long-term relief of clinical signs.

A perineal hernia occurs when the muscles around the anus weaken, allowing abdominal contents to displace. This condition is most common in older, intact male dogs. Affected animals often show straining, constipation, or swelling adjacent to the anus. Surgical repair is usually necessary and, when performed in a timely manner, carries a good prognosis.

In renal conditions such as cysts, abscesses, or localized tumors, a partial nephrectomy may be considered. When a kidney is severely damaged, a nephrectomy may be performed. During surgery, it is essential to preserve adequate blood supply to the remaining kidney. Postoperative follow-up includes monitoring renal function and fluid balance. In selected cases, the procedure can significantly improve quality of life.

Disorders of the ureters, such as obstruction by stones or strictures, require delicate surgical intervention. Options include ureterotomy, reimplantation, or placement of a ureteral bypass. Due to the narrow diameter of the ureter, microsurgical techniques are often necessary. Timely intervention helps prevent irreversible renal damage.

The most common indication for bladder surgery is removal of urinary stones or tumors. During a cystotomy, the bladder is opened, the cause is removed, and the mucosa is meticulously closed. Postoperative care includes fluid therapy and monitoring of urine output. Prognosis is generally excellent.

The urethra may become obstructed by stones, strictures, or tumors, particularly in male cats. Surgical options range from urethrotomy to perineal urethrostomy (PU). The choice depends on the location of the obstruction. Strict hygiene and effective pain management are crucial during recovery.

Spaying (ovariohysterectomy or ovariectomy) in female dogs and cats prevents unwanted pregnancy, estrus cycles, and hormonal disorders such as pyometra. In male dogs and cats, neutering reduces undesirable behavior and the risk of prostate disease. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, and recovery is usually uneventful.

A cesarean section is indicated in cases of dystocia, large litters, or an abnormally narrow pelvis. Prompt intervention helps prevent mortality in both the dam and offspring. The procedure involves a controlled incision into the uterus, after which the puppies are safely delivered. Postoperative care includes wound management and lactation support.

Uterine infection is a serious hormonal condition in intact female dogs. Surgical removal of the uterus and ovaries is the only curative treatment. Without rapid intervention, sepsis may develop. Postoperatively, antibiotics and fluid therapy are administered.

Enlarged or inflamed prostates can lead to pain, urinary difficulties, and constipation. In cases of tumors or cysts, partial or complete removal may be performed. This procedure requires precision to preserve the urinary tract. Castration is often part of the treatment.

In short-nosed dogs, narrowed nostrils, an elongated soft palate, and sometimes everted laryngeal saccules cause respiratory distress. Surgery corrects these structures to improve airflow. The procedure reduces respiratory effort and improves quality of life. Careful anesthesia and postoperative monitoring are essential.

Laryngeal paralysis occurs mainly in older dogs and leads to noisy breathing and respiratory distress. The most commonly performed procedure is unilateral arytenoid lateralization (“tie-back”), which keeps the airway open during inspiration. Strict postoperative care helps prevent complications such as aspiration pneumonia.

In cases of tracheal collapse or narrowing, a segment of the trachea may be reinforced with rings or a stent. The choice depends on the location and severity of the condition. The procedure requires precise technique and experienced anesthetic management. The goal is to restore long-term respiratory comfort.

In cases of large skin defects, grafts or local flaps are used to restore tissue coverage. The choice depends on the size, location, and blood supply of the wound. Proper wound preparation is essential for success. Postoperative monitoring helps prevent infection and tissue necrosis.

Chronic ear infections that do not respond to medication can be treated by complete removal of the ear canal (TECA). This procedure eliminates the source of infection and relieves pain. Meticulous dissection is required to preserve the facial nerve.

Following trauma or tumor resection, tissue transposition techniques may be necessary to restore the form and function of the muzzle and face. This requires detailed knowledge of anatomy and blood supply. The goal is both functional and aesthetic restoration while preserving breathing and facial expression.

In cases of traffic accidents or bite wounds, multiple organs and tissues may be damaged simultaneously. Patient stabilization is the first priority, followed by surgical repair of vital structures. Management is often multidisciplinary.

In cases of internal bleeding, for example due to splenic rupture or a lacerated liver, the source of hemorrhage must be rapidly identified and controlled. Hemostasis and restoration of circulating volume are central to treatment. Timely intervention helps prevent organ failure.

These conditions are among the most urgent emergencies in veterinary medicine. Surgical intervention must take place immediately after stabilization.