Surgical removal of tumours is often recommended to eliminate cancerous or problematic growths and improve quality of life. The success of the procedure depends on the tumour type, size, location, and the ability to achieve complete removal with clean margins.

Preoperative planning

A preoperative biopsy is highly recommended to determine the tumour type and guide surgical planning. The prognosis depends on the tumour type, how aggressive it is, and whether it has spread to other areas. Knowing the tumour characteristics helps in planning the best approach for surgery and post-operative care.

What to expect during surgery

1. Tumour removal – The tumour, along with a margin of healthy tissue, is excised to reduce the risk of recurrence.
2. Closure options – Depending on the tumour location, size, and your dog’s skin mobility and thickness, different closure techniques may be used:
   • Primary closure – Directly suturing the wound if there is sufficient loose skin.
   • Walking sutures – A technique to advance nearby skin to help close the defect.
   • Skin flaps – Mobilizing adjacent skin with its blood supply to cover the wound.
   • Skin grafts – Transferring skin from another area if local tissue is insufficient.
3. Closed suction drain placement – A drain is often placed when large amounts of fluid accumulation are expected. The drain helps remove excess fluid and promotes healing.

What to expect after surgery

• Hospitalisation: Your pet will stay overnight, to ensure pain management, monitor their initial recovery, and address any post-surgical concerns with our 24/7 on-site team.
• Recovery period: Your pet will likely require a 2-week recovery period post-surgery. During this time, it’s important to limit activity to avoid strain on the surgical site.
• Drain management – The closed suction drain helps prevent fluid buildup and should be emptied when more than 50% full. Your pet may be discharged with the drain in place and it is likely to stay in place for 5-7 days. The drain will require emptying at home. You will receive a demonstration and handout to teach you how to do this.
• Incision care – Keep the surgical site clean and monitor for swelling, redness, or discharge.
• Pain management – Pain relief medications and anti-inflammatory drugs will be prescribed.
• Follow-up visits – Regular check-ups will be scheduled to monitor healing and remove the drain (likely at 5-7 days after surgery).

Prognosis

The long-term prognosis depends on the tumour type, its aggressiveness, and whether it was completely removed. If the tumour is cancerous, additional treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation may be discussed. We will guide you on the best course of action based on biopsy results.