https://www.vetsurginfo.com/blog daily 1.0 2024-10-26 https://www.vetsurginfo.com/blog/surgical-tips-for-greyhound-owners monthly 0.5 2023-10-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1698088268732-3KJO4I2JHWEOPUCVP3Z8/IMG_9057.jpg Blog - Surgical Tips for Greyhound Owners and their Veterinarians. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1698088260757-GKPUOKRSYNSIMJIU80OE/IMG_9053.jpg Blog - Surgical Tips for Greyhound Owners and their Veterinarians. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1698088376511-R8Z61IDQ14IRV01M5EV1/IMG_9056.jpg Blog - Surgical Tips for Greyhound Owners and their Veterinarians. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1698088572951-KQD0A9SDWMFZ6JR384AR/IMG_9055.jpg Blog - Surgical Tips for Greyhound Owners and their Veterinarians. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/635e68f3-1b0b-4f6d-b769-212e66bc3c54/IMG_9060.jpg Blog - Surgical Tips for Greyhound Owners and their Veterinarians. - Decubital Ulcer This is a hock wound known as a decubital ulcer on a Greyhound as the result of bandaging. Although, it is impossible to eliminate bandage sores completely, this scenario is typically avoided with timely bandage changes and adequate cushioning in the bandage. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/2679b354-26e1-4c26-a531-1a385f4de154/f37e4cc9-88b1-4bc5-9aca-803bb27a14e0.png Blog - Surgical Tips for Greyhound Owners and their Veterinarians. - Central Tarsal Bone Fracture Here is another greyhound that fractured the central tarsal bone (slab fracture). Some cases can be managed with external coaptation (bandaging with splints) but most benefit earlier and more fully with surgery. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/4a8986f2-cc5c-4b77-839d-daa90555e83f/Screenshot+2023-09-10+at+1.03.42+PM.png Blog - Surgical Tips for Greyhound Owners and their Veterinarians. - The central tarsal bone gets compressed and forced out of the joint, often fracturing as it displaces. In surgery, the bone is replaced back to its original location, with lag screw fixation to the fourth tarsal bone. The central tarsal bone is pictured to the left and colored lavender for clarity. This is the cranial-plantar view (front to back) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1698088376511-R8Z61IDQ14IRV01M5EV1/IMG_9056.jpg Blog - Surgical Tips for Greyhound Owners and their Veterinarians. - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1d731e9d-85b3-47af-b107-7d8000770ca7/Screenshot+2023-10-23+at+4.35.00+PM.png Blog - Surgical Tips for Greyhound Owners and their Veterinarians. - Stirrups are typically placed on either side of the limb to help secure the bandage. They can be placed medial/lateral orientation or cranial/palmar/plantar. (photo credit: Clinician’s Brief) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/5b13027c-623c-4f31-a0a3-435f2cd58f09/IMG_0787+%281%29.jpg Blog - Surgical Tips for Greyhound Owners and their Veterinarians. - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/ae253b4c-74dc-4c1b-9808-61ab16d68ae8/Screenshot+2023-10-20+at+12.41.46+PM+2.png Blog - Surgical Tips for Greyhound Owners and their Veterinarians. - This tarsal support bandage is extremely helpful for SOFT padded support. The fleece option is suggested for Greyhounds due to their thin skin. A veterinarian prescription is required to order this item. Several measurements will be taken to ensure a good, custom fit. This bandage is a good fit for Greyhounds as it is not overly bulky with sufficient and variable support. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/71aae8e7-9290-479c-8cfe-e1b67c925206/Screenshot+2023-10-23+at+1.48.09+PM.png Blog - Surgical Tips for Greyhound Owners and their Veterinarians. - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/32f5f5ac-e4b1-40a1-b8fa-3dcfa8564942/IMG_8951+2.jpeg Blog - Surgical Tips for Greyhound Owners and their Veterinarians. One important thing to note is that, due to the very thin skin and lack of significant fat on the Greyhound extremities, implants can become exposed. Although initially alarming to the owner, this is not an emergency. In many cases, this will occur prior to full healing in which case, the site is monitored carefully for changes such as drainage, redness, heat or swelling. Typically a bandage is applied to protect the region during healing. The patient pictured to the left had a fracture of the second metatarsal bone. The screw became exposed at ~12 months post operatively (bone had healed) and was removed on a non-emergent basis. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/6b3129f2-3ed0-4aaa-aacf-bb0b873dec78/94628d02-1ba9-469a-b9b6-ee823ec1f3b3.jpg Blog - Surgical Tips for Greyhound Owners and their Veterinarians. - This is a lateral view of the right hock in a greyhound that luxated its central tarsal bone. The joint space of the hock is notably collapsed as well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/447a631a-baee-4bd5-a391-7b22fd5dd6b5/Screenshot+2023-10-23+at+1.34.37+PM.png Blog - Surgical Tips for Greyhound Owners and their Veterinarians. - MediPaw The MediPaw can be a lifesaver for your Greyhound. It will allow your bandage to better survive the elements. The Soft Bandage Boot is best for short term bandages (~2 weeks) and the Rugged Bandage is best for longer term and heavier bandages. All except the Healing Slim Boot must be removed after coming back inside. The other boots are waterproof but not breathable for more than 60 minute use. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/72ed9da8-2f11-4e2a-869b-fa8363cbce60/Screenshot+2023-10-23+at+4.39.37+PM.png Blog - Surgical Tips for Greyhound Owners and their Veterinarians. Stirrups can be trimmed at bandage changes leaving the attachment on the limb to put the next stirrup over. For removal a pet safe adhesive removing solvent can be applied to gently remove the tape. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/df24efda-92bd-4457-8eb5-f88ee492611c/Screenshot+2023-10-23+at+1.47.53+PM.png Blog - Surgical Tips for Greyhound Owners and their Veterinarians. - Bandage Covers: The MediPaw company makes a reliable boot to cover and protect bandages from the elements. This is to be worn outside and removed once inside. There are multiple sizes available based on your Greyhound’s needs. After surgery it is not uncommon to have a bandage in place for 6 to 12 weeks. Use of a bandage cover will protect the bandage allowing for weekly bandage changes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1698098448073-AX04RXAP1PY7T0EP3RQJ/IMG_4337.jpg Blog - Surgical Tips for Greyhound Owners and their Veterinarians. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1698098525389-D1ZVADQL8QK2XBVDI3OA/IMG_4340.jpg Blog - Surgical Tips for Greyhound Owners and their Veterinarians. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1698106554390-X62PULIR0P7DCKOYAQAL/IMG_4299.jpg Blog - Surgical Tips for Greyhound Owners and their Veterinarians. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1698106413130-G3Q6QAC0M4K7G5XPKTF9/Screenshot+2023-10-23+at+8.11.25+PM.png Blog - Surgical Tips for Greyhound Owners and their Veterinarians. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/e4013786-b636-4c1b-afe3-7833bd6006cd/Screenshot+2023-10-23+at+2.32.06+PM.png Blog - Surgical Tips for Greyhound Owners and their Veterinarians. This is a quick reference for Greyhound blood work reference ranges but use IDEXX link above for more extensive list of reference values. https://www.vetsurginfo.com/blog/tplo-recovery-tips monthly 0.5 2023-10-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1630978677852-PFB7ML9NUHIW6H5S5BOU/IMG_6472.jpeg Blog - TPLO Recovery Tips - The Help ‘Em up Harness This is a brilliant invention that improves the traditional harness to include a handle over the chest and back. This accessory is particular helpful for large dogs with bilateral knee procedures but truly any dog may benefit from it. *Avoid U-bar in male dogs as it can apply excessive pressure on inner thighs when laying down. * Link to website https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1630980882891-ZDP4IAEBJHE8B8G9IMPD/IMG_6469.jpeg Blog - TPLO Recovery Tips - Why medication? To minimize surgical pain To minimize arthritic pain To provide sedation and sanity! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1630980003007-HASLXZ9T4VGD2GY5PN2D/Screen+Shot+2021-09-06+at+9.59.12+PM.png Blog - TPLO Recovery Tips Trazodone was initially designed to treat depression in people but has since been found to be a better solution to combat insomnia. Dogs do very well on it for anxiety and for sedation and it is inexpensive. Trazodone can facilitate recovery and rest as well as calm the nerves for a vet visit. We recommend giving it the morning of surgery and radiograph recheck at 10 weeks. It may take 90 minutes to work, so give it well ahead of any schedule change like getting in the car so that it has time to work! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1630981426573-XSGTN3VT2LSUIWW91NJ1/IMG_6950.jpeg Blog - TPLO Recovery Tips - The Elizabethan Collar aka “the Cone” No one loves the cone, but for most pets, it is essential for a safe recovery by minimizing infection. This hard cone is our mainstay for avoiding incision infections, because most infections are do to licking! We will do our best to fit your pet with the appropriate cone. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1630981674182-QNU7OI0KJ55916YBX8BZ/Screen+Shot+2021-09-06+at+10.27.44+PM.png Blog - TPLO Recovery Tips - Nobody said you couldn’t have fun with this! There are other variation on the e-collar idea. There are inflatable options and even plush options. The best test is to put something like peanut on your pets leg (before surgery) and see if he or she can reach it with the cone on. If they can, this option won’t work. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/01e4a198-2a62-4c57-978a-a6de51df6f99/Screen+Shot+2022-12-03+at+3.58.57+PM.png Blog - TPLO Recovery Tips - Confinement is a very difficult and daunting task that is further aided by a crate, small room or pen. If your pet is accustomed to a crate, wonderful! If not, there are other options such as a large pen. One of our favorites is pictured here to the left. It can be customized and ordered on amazon at link below. Amazon pen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1630931397500-76M3HEXBABWMTC1CEZ6X/Screen+Shot+2021-09-06+at+7.50.16+AM.png Blog - TPLO Recovery Tips - If you hate the cone…. Recently there have been several products developed in order to improve recovery from knee surgery. One such product is a sleeve that covers the incision, avoiding the dreaded cone in some cases. Here is an example. https://www.licksleeve.com https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1630978396821-5FKDCJOWPJWXE3RO0CV4/Screen+Shot+2021-09-06+at+9.32.13+PM.png Blog - TPLO Recovery Tips - Etsy has similar offering, but they are custom made, so plan ahead and order early. We have clients who have used this and have been very happy. You can pick a fabric that fits your style. This is a local, woman-owned, small business that operates out of Williamsburg, VA. This is our favorite option!!! Click on the link for the Etsy store. K9 surgery sleeves https://www.vetsurginfo.com/blog/ulyr9df7qp8jjhcn530vijcvj9c0sv monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1630868555002-TI7TWKB5DBT59IWEM9VH/IMG_0282.jpeg Blog - Is the TPLO really the best fit for my dog’s knee injury? - The osteotomy (bone cut) is essentially a controlled fracture that is held in the new optimal position with a bone plate. Unlike scar tissue, bone will heal to 100% in a predictable time frame of 8 to 12 weeks. Another advantage is this repair is quite sturdy. Thanks to bone implant technology, this repair can handle much more wear and tear than the lateral suture technique. Having said this, leash control is necessary for 10 weeks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1630793157118-ZHJIWKAWRFG6DW3N5GBP/IMG_0227.jpeg Blog - Is the TPLO really the best fit for my dog’s knee injury? - But back to the TPLO question…. The picture above is a side view a dog knee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1630868366974-LF7P145VWGURWPN5F0A5/IMG_0280.jpeg Blog - Is the TPLO really the best fit for my dog’s knee injury? - The proximal bone piece (top small portion) is rotated to the optimal position. This position puts the CAUDAL cruciate ligament under tension making it the primary stabilizer of the knee. The ruptured CRANIAL cruciate ligament is no longer necessary. Good news is your dog won’t know the difference and neither will you, judging from the exterior. The general knee appearance remains the same. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1630927279629-1ILKP7S7CX9OCN8E92JI/IMG_5198.jpeg Blog - Is the TPLO really the best fit for my dog’s knee injury? - Draining Tract: A wound that develops weeks to months after your dog’s TPLO is typically an indication for plate removal due to a lingering implant infection. This can occur weeks to years after surgery. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1630927355301-DRMI4SRTJ5LBVS81EJ2K/IMG_0344.jpeg Blog - Is the TPLO really the best fit for my dog’s knee injury? - Fractures Fractures can occur secondary to the TPLO procedure. A fracure of the small skinny fibula bone (2%) is not a serious complication and does not require additional surgery. It is not a weight bearing bone and it will heal on its own. A fracture of the tibial crest is quite rare (1%) and in some cases requires additional surgery to pin the fracture back in place if movement of the fractured piece is noted. The chances of this happening are reportedly increased with bilateral procedures https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1630793327838-LHI91M9CQSQ6SLVAIG0U/IMG_0127.jpeg Blog - Is the TPLO really the best fit for my dog’s knee injury? - Aerial view of the top of the tibia The purple c-shaped structures are the medial and lateral menisci. They are shock absorbers and cushions of the joint. They allow the round bottom end of the femur fit better with the flat top of the tibia. They distribute the stress of impact with each hop, step and jump. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1630869518267-2A59JXB0L5IHF5UF8AQV/IMG_0345.jpeg Blog - Is the TPLO really the best fit for my dog’s knee injury? - Patella tendonitis or patella tendon thickening Along with the caudal cruciate ligament taking on a new role as the primary joint stabilizer, the patella tendon also takes on new strain. Temporarily this can result in thickening of the tendon. In some dogs this is noted by a persistent lameness that requires additional rest and anti-inflammatories. Some dogs show no signs of lameness from the thickening. Yet others will not have visible thickening at all. This can be noted at the 10 week recheck and will be addressed accordingly. The condition is completely recoverable and the long term outcome is not altered for the worse. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1630868041789-IWP818EVWW4WFUW922NG/IMG_0211.jpeg Blog - Is the TPLO really the best fit for my dog’s knee injury? - TIBIAL SLOPE The TPLO is based on the fact that the top of the tibia, or tibial plateau, has an upward angle in all dogs (and cats). This angle is measured with anatomically perfectly positioned radiographs (x-rays) in order to accurately plan for surgery. The average dog has a slope of 25 to 40 degrees up from normal (flat, 0 degrees). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1630868220048-4UFC7XGVGIZ3EIG1MFQL/IMG_0225.jpeg Blog - Is the TPLO really the best fit for my dog’s knee injury? - The osteotomy or bone cut A bone cut is made, full thickness through the bone at the top of the tibia. This small portion of bone is rotated to the proper position (based on tibial slope measurement, see above). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1630926096338-605IE10YJZSXJBYT3X89/IMG_0211.jpeg Blog - Is the TPLO really the best fit for my dog’s knee injury? - Deep Infection: Less than 2 to 5% of cases will develop a deep infection. This typically occurs when a dog licks the incision and the infection progresses to deep tissues. In these cases, a culture is taken and submitted to the lab. Once the organism is known the proper antibiotic can be given to heal the infection and heal the bone. Unfortunately, long term, bacteria can hide in the implants (protected by a biofilm) and so once the bone has healed, the plate must be removed. Luckily at that point, the plate is not longer necessary and is NOT REPLACED. This is a big benefit of the TPLO. Most dogs, however, will keep their bone plates lifelong. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1630869076221-PAGGWUH25FAIP2AB3A06/IMG_0349.jpeg Blog - Is the TPLO really the best fit for my dog’s knee injury? - Meniscal tears The tear in the meniscus cannot be repaired due to poor blood supply, rather the torn portion is removed and the rest is preserved. The removal of a tear brings major relief to the joint and thus your dog. Tears can also come in delay of stabilization requiring additional surgery. Alternatively, a meniscal release may be performed at the surgeon’s preference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1630868840581-JYQ4FY4WV7NUQ0BOXEP4/IMG_0347.jpeg Blog - Is the TPLO really the best fit for my dog’s knee injury? - Don’t forget the meniscus! While in surgery, partial or complete rupture of the CCL will be documented. The meniscus will also be inspected. The medial meniscus has the highest propensity for tearing especially with complete CCL tears. This is due to instability experienced by the joint that is taken on by the meniscus. Given its specific anatomy, the medial meniscus gets hit the hardest by the sliding of the tibial relative to the femur. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1630925552827-9RDRRRPRUQT11R9N3UCR/IMG_4442.jpeg Blog - Is the TPLO really the best fit for my dog’s knee injury? - Infections Most infections start as superficial infections are the result of incision licking. Evidence of licking includes missing sutures, saliva staining and imperfect wound edges (see picture). A lack of timely healing with risk of superficial infection noted at the two week recheck or earlier, may warrant additional time in the e-collar and extended antibiotics beyond the prophylactic course provided at discharge. The cone/e-collar or other wound coverage such as surgical sleeves is essential for minimizing the risk of infection. The risk of superficial infection is approximately 5 to 10%. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1630844645662-0PSN21Q1JVLEN2Q36EE9/IMG_0226.jpeg Blog - Is the TPLO really the best fit for my dog’s knee injury? - Torn Cranial Cruciate ligament The cruciate ligament can be partially or completely torn. Dogs can have a severe lameness with a partial tear. An important note is all partial tears will become complete tears. Once the tearing starts it cannot be repaired or reversed. It is for this reason, that surgery is recommended once pathology is noted because this irreversible injury is best treated early in the process to minimize the progression of long term arthritis. The longer the knee is unstable the worse arthritis will be. This does not make this injury an emergency but rather it should ideally not be put off for several months. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1630865511956-MEPSDQH30O737PAFMAPK/IMG_0277.jpeg Blog - Is the TPLO really the best fit for my dog’s knee injury? - The extra capsular lateral suture stabilization (ELSS) aka medial retinacular imbrication technique, and “the band” technique was the original repair used in veterinary medicine. This technique uses a heavy, non absorbable suture material that acts as the scaffold for scar tissue. The idea is if scar tissue forms reliably then when the suture material weakens (months to years later), the scar tissue should stay tight and provide stability. Problems arise when pets are too active after surgery and stretch out the scar tissue, never providing a stable knee. Additionally, scar tissue is unpredictable and not as strong as the original CCL. This can lead to a lame dog and understandably upset owners. Although the lateral suture has a limited role (small, compromised dogs financially constrained owners) other techniques such as the TPLO and TTA are much more reliable, predictable, provide almost normal outcomes (95%) and honestly, are less stressful during the recovery. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1630927429949-H4JE3GLCQ6MUTR49V5AV/IMG_0346.jpeg Blog - Is the TPLO really the best fit for my dog’s knee injury? - Delayed Meniscal Tears As mentioned earlier, meniscal tears can occur. Rarely, <10% of cases will develop a delayed tear, months to years after stabilization surgery. This does require additional surgery to remove the meniscal tear. https://www.vetsurginfo.com/blog/vyu0vp61a7ja6t3ikiubr9j63otr0i monthly 0.5 2021-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1613313420349-KH3UD06UUTZHXO4UW6YS/Screen+Shot+2021-02-14+at+9.35.13+AM.png Blog - Episioplasty: the surgical helper for chronic urinary tract infections in young dogs. - Sterile Surgical Marker The surgical markers are sold as presterilized individual units that include a paper ruler. They are a one time use. They can be useful for skin and reconstruction surgeries of all types. https://www.pdchealthcare.com/sterile-skin-marker-pen-with-flexible-ruler-100-cs-ster-skm.html https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1613314311470-YOHPQK6TWBDSC54G9V23/IMG_2736.jpeg Blog - Episioplasty: the surgical helper for chronic urinary tract infections in young dogs. Note the large “moon-shaped” incision made in the perivulvar skin. Adequate skin must be removed to allow for resolution of clinical signs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1613332797868-G2G96PJEITNS2U1K5VUQ/IMG_0130.jpeg Blog - Episioplasty: the surgical helper for chronic urinary tract infections in young dogs. The sutures placed in each of the following pictures is placed as a “skin suture” for visibility and illustrative purposes. In reality, these sutures are placed subcutaneously. A continuous layer is then placed in the superficial subcutaneous region and intradermal regions. Based on the size of the dog, I use 3.0 or 4.0 Monocryl (poligecaprone ) or similar. It is my preference to place skin sutures (3.0 ethilon) as an added layer of security as well as improving cosmesis with precise skin apposition. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1613314345055-H3OFNWGNE63B757W42GX/IMG_2738.jpeg Blog - Episioplasty: the surgical helper for chronic urinary tract infections in young dogs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1613332872890-QVQOJTA3H44TEH8WHD7T/IMG_0132.PNG Blog - Episioplasty: the surgical helper for chronic urinary tract infections in young dogs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1613314282607-R0KODNF006L517ORL0W2/IMG_2737.jpeg Blog - Episioplasty: the surgical helper for chronic urinary tract infections in young dogs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1613312482604-9XE6M9DSIL97BI033IS5/8961F5E0-F885-4BE9-A260-50C958CC6BAC.JPG Blog - Episioplasty: the surgical helper for chronic urinary tract infections in young dogs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1613314587025-EWQOE5H0TL45HCHIX8CP/FullSizeRender.jpeg Blog - Episioplasty: the surgical helper for chronic urinary tract infections in young dogs. After suture removal, mild scabbing may be noted. At this point a urine sample should be rechecked to ensure bacterial infection has resolved if previously present. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1613332728133-LTWT67499I8PZOZB6MWA/IMG_0129.jpeg Blog - Episioplasty: the surgical helper for chronic urinary tract infections in young dogs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1613314542391-KJ3Q68GMJCTSX90M1FIZ/IMG_2712.jpeg Blog - Episioplasty: the surgical helper for chronic urinary tract infections in young dogs. This is the two week post operative recheck of the St. Bernard. Note the resolution of bruising, and the continued visibility of the vulva. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1613332836300-LQ2W6D8UPXJKHP9JJZZY/IMG_0131.jpeg Blog - Episioplasty: the surgical helper for chronic urinary tract infections in young dogs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1613314494315-HM8XJDT5XBAZUKFZG8GY/IMG_2740.jpeg Blog - Episioplasty: the surgical helper for chronic urinary tract infections in young dogs. Here is the immediate post operative view of the episioplasty on the St. Bernard. https://www.vetsurginfo.com/blog/folded-flap-palatoplasty-the-better-way-to-improve-brachycephalic monthly 0.5 2020-12-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609171630090-FWMLIBYJJNRHMOWYZD2P/Picture2.jpg Blog - Folded-Flap Palatoplasty: the better way to improve brachycephalics. The blue line denotes the traditional staphylectomy cut site. The traditional landmarks are incision of the palate at the level of the caudal tonsils. The red line denotes the modified staphylectomy site. The modified incision allows for removal of more palate thus opening up the airway significantly more than previous. (images courtesy of VetRecord) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609251231281-2DJABVLSE1B9UPQSTPW3/Pic.png Blog - Folded-Flap Palatoplasty: the better way to improve brachycephalics. In this picture, all of the tissue is excised. Stay sutures remain and next tissue will be advanced rostrally and secured. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609250327369-02RUO8H9ICW8WMP52IVR/Picturpe1.png Blog - Folded-Flap Palatoplasty: the better way to improve brachycephalics. - Tractioning of the caudal mucosa in a rostral direction is depicted here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609292416250-ZKBSJ84I8VBSTV1C1TAU/Screen+Shot+2020-12-29+at+6.39.05+PM.png Blog - Folded-Flap Palatoplasty: the better way to improve brachycephalics. Wedge resection of the nares can be completed in the central portion or laterally. The wedge is created with an 11 blade. I place a cotton-tipped applicator in the nares opening to attempt to stop hemorrhage from draining into the nasopharyngeal region. The wedge is closed with absorbable or non-absorbable suture. If a patient is difficult to restrain, I will use an absorbable suture such as 4.0 monocryl, to avoid removal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609163700179-O2GJAKH8A48Z026ZAZX2/Screen+Shot+2020-12-28+at+6.54.34+AM.png Blog - Folded-Flap Palatoplasty: the better way to improve brachycephalics. photo credit: www.poshchicago.com https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609291998975-SC2TVMSNJ2EVIF522L91/Screen+Shot+2020-12-29+at+6.31.09+PM.png Blog - Folded-Flap Palatoplasty: the better way to improve brachycephalics. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609248432610-D3QH57XYL5DI8NZ878UK/Picture3.png Blog - Folded-Flap Palatoplasty: the better way to improve brachycephalics. Image: Clinician’s Brief 2013 Findji and Dupre Using the technique of Findji and Dupre, the caudal aspect of the palate is tractioned cranially with the use of stay sutures. A trapezoid of tissue to be removed is outline with electrocautery. The majority of soft tissues are removed between the nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal mucosae, including ventral mucosa, connective tissue, part of the palatines and elevator palatine levi muscles. The remain preserves the inner most layer of nasopharyngeal mucosal tissue. The caudal aspect is then advanced rostrally and flapped in place. The provides a shorter, thinner palate with the added benefit of a more rostral incision, out of the immediate airway. The more rostral incision helps with breathing and inflammation post operatively. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609252090425-3Y8YODEHYGCSMG9UL3B0/Pi.png Blog - Folded-Flap Palatoplasty: the better way to improve brachycephalics. Yellow arrows indicate the direction of advancement. The caudal most tissue where stay sutures are will excised just prior to closure. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609167089496-1W82H0F3RLCTHQD674ZF/Picture1.png Blog - Folded-Flap Palatoplasty: the better way to improve brachycephalics. Image courtesy of Cambridge University https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609296353691-WRI77VZ70337XZ4KT2T4/Screen+Shot+2020-12-29+at+7.42.11+PM.png Blog - Folded-Flap Palatoplasty: the better way to improve brachycephalics. The image on the left in a French bull dog prior to nares resection. Note the pinched nares. The picture on the right is immediately post operative after the nares were resected (lateral). Note how the nares are opened up. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609250638441-U42ZZXL0ZB7GYJ8KP5SU/palatine.png Blog - Folded-Flap Palatoplasty: the better way to improve brachycephalics. The view displays the beginning of partial thickness excision of soft tissues. Excision is meticulous, ideally cauterizing vessels prior to bleeding to improve visualization. Largest vessels are dorsal lateral (in tissue not yet excised in this photo). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609165992533-36RNE1MHWI0R1RB3H0EU/brach+skulls.png Blog - Folded-Flap Palatoplasty: the better way to improve brachycephalics. The brachycephalic skull is modified in cranial and caudal aspects, literally shortened in dimension. The tongue, palate, turbinates and other soft tissues remain of relatively normal size, struggling for room in the short but wide enclosure. (credits royalcanin.com) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609250490564-AV36H6903I8EFQQ80QKB/palat.png Blog - Folded-Flap Palatoplasty: the better way to improve brachycephalics. The tissue to be excised is demarcated with electrocautery (pin point tip). The shape is generally trapezoidal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609164631788-WJ53R0F3AEPEPF740YXY/Screen+Shot+2020-12-28+at+7.10.02+AM.png Blog - Folded-Flap Palatoplasty: the better way to improve brachycephalics. - elongated palate This lateral view and partial cross section emphasize the elongated soft palate, which partially obstructs the airway. The turbinates obstruct the nasopharyngeal airflow. (veazievets.com). Image below shows this in further detail. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609251329877-D0N4SS5MOLESK6ARSNFQ/Pictu.png Blog - Folded-Flap Palatoplasty: the better way to improve brachycephalics. This picture displays the final product of the FFP procedure. The sutures may be placed as interrupted or continuous (as selected here). By the procedure’s end the nasopharyngeal ostium should be visible. https://www.vetsurginfo.com/blog/blog-post-three-tjsf9 monthly 0.5 2020-12-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609077595931-LH2NEIQT62PHWD79ICLJ/Image-3.jpg Blog - Proper treatment of distal radius and ulnar fracture in toy breeds: the answer is surgical. Figure E: This is the immediately post operative view (lateral) of the repaired fracture. In this case, using an oscillating saw, the blunted fracture ends were cut to encourage bone healing and improve alignment. A 1.0mm bone plate was applied to this 3kg dog. It is important to have an appropriately sized implant. The ideal implant provides enough support to promote bone healing but not excessive support which would create stress protection and require plate removal eventually and potentially prevent complete bone healing. A bone graft was placed (cancellous bone graft VOI). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609076452316-7ZW8TLQQWGHN9HBZ2C4C/Image-1.jpg Blog - Proper treatment of distal radius and ulnar fracture in toy breeds: the answer is surgical. Figure C: This is a malunion/delayed union fracture of a 9mos old FS Yorkshire terrier. This fracture had been splinted due to lack of finances. Although some attempt at union can be noted, the distal portion of radius and ulna (and paw) is rotated 90degrees from normal resulting in an attempted partial malunion. Additionally motion could be felt at the fracture site. Note the marked osteopenia of the distal components of the forelimb fracture. This dog also had marked laxity of the carpus from being splinted for 9 weeks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609077269667-C5BRNGB3NYFW39358F52/Image-2.jpg Blog - Proper treatment of distal radius and ulnar fracture in toy breeds: the answer is surgical. - Figure D: Figure D: Craniocaudal view of the distal radius and ulna fracture https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609080800481-O5GH0NVFUJ0R51KZGTG0/Screen+Shot+2020-12-27+at+9.48.55+AM.png Blog - Proper treatment of distal radius and ulnar fracture in toy breeds: the answer is surgical. In this case due to the very small size of the dog (2.5kg), a very small bone plate was selected (1.0mm 2X5 hole). Vetimplants.com https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609074519317-VOXWFHR9XV64SICO13FZ/Screen+Shot+2020-12-27+at+7.58.53+AM.png Blog - Proper treatment of distal radius and ulnar fracture in toy breeds: the answer is surgical. Figure B: This is an image created of the blood supply of the distal radius in a young large breed dog. The white arrow is placed where blood supply is very dense and extensive compared to the above pictured small breed dog (figure A). (Courtesy of Veterinary Surgery 26: 57-61 1997, Janet Welch et al) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609038404835-KLL8NSK5TPWSZ8F5P2Q0/Image-1.jpg Blog - Proper treatment of distal radius and ulnar fracture in toy breeds: the answer is surgical. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609079875397-8DUR17Q2OMRRGJ62YZR3/Image-4.jpg Blog - Proper treatment of distal radius and ulnar fracture in toy breeds: the answer is surgical. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609074253639-SQNCYD122SX45W4B3SHS/Screen+Shot+2020-12-27+at+7.58.48+AM.png Blog - Proper treatment of distal radius and ulnar fracture in toy breeds: the answer is surgical. Figure A: This is an image created of the blood supply of the distal radius in a young Jack Russell Terrier. The black arrow is placed where blood supply is significantly diminished relative to large breed dogs (figure B below). (Courtesy of Veterinary Surgery 26: 57-61 1997, Janet Welch et al) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609078987003-3NB0EI36N37EY89OYYV5/Screen+Shot+2020-12-27+at+9.21.52+AM.png Blog - Proper treatment of distal radius and ulnar fracture in toy breeds: the answer is surgical. Figure F: A cancellous bone graft was applied using bone putty (veterinary orthopedic implants—vetimplants.com). This provides convenience, saving time in harvesting for an autogenous bone graft (e.g. proximal humeral), not to mention morbidity of site harvest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609081209957-N3XA6329PRPQEW1ED46Q/IMG_1356.jpeg Blog - Proper treatment of distal radius and ulnar fracture in toy breeds: the answer is surgical. https://www.vetsurginfo.com/blog/blog-post-two-gnb96 monthly 0.5 2020-12-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1607781332576-C17S39UNXPEIDS69ZPP4/image-asset.png Blog - Medial Patellar Luxation in Cats: Keeping MPLs on your radar for feline patients. This is a ventrodorsal radiographic view of the pelvics and knees of a cat with grade IV/IV MPLs. The kitten is 15 weeks old. Note medial placement of patellae. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1607863650056-C3PUJZXPC9JN2GVBGAVM/Screen+Shot+2020-12-12+at+9.00.43+AM.png Blog - Medial Patellar Luxation in Cats: Keeping MPLs on your radar for feline patients. The end result of soft tissue surgical correction should have the patella in the trochlear groove. The subcutaneous tissues and skin layers are then closed. Generally the medial retinaculum is left open and released. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1607862320868-UIL7KN4KEQVW869EUL9J/Screen+Shot+2020-12-12+at+8.59.55+AM.png Blog - Medial Patellar Luxation in Cats: Keeping MPLs on your radar for feline patients. First step after medial arthrotomy is to release the retinaculum medially. The release goes all the way through the joint capsule and continues until the joint is visualized. This releases the tightening tissue on the medial aspect. In severe cases, such as this kitten, this release is extended up proximally to release the quadriceps. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1607863575569-VTTFH886QS7O0H5NUP00/Screen+Shot+2020-12-12+at+9.00.17+AM.png Blog - Medial Patellar Luxation in Cats: Keeping MPLs on your radar for feline patients. After the medial release and arthrotomy, the lateral aspect of the stifle joint is addressed. Redundant lateral retinaculum is excised and the remaining cut edges are imbricated using a pattern such as vest-over-pants. This is to pull the patella laterally into the trochlear groove. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1607781246239-3EKI0IT1I26XH9YL2H62/Screen+Shot+2020-12-11+at+9.06.33+PM.png Blog - Medial Patellar Luxation in Cats: Keeping MPLs on your radar for feline patients. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1607781692529-UG2FYHKUVT10107WD715/Screen+Shot+2020-12-12+at+9.00.56+AM.png Blog - Medial Patellar Luxation in Cats: Keeping MPLs on your radar for feline patients. This is an intraoperative picture of a kitten (carniomedial approach) with grade four medial patellar luxations. Note the patella is to the left which is medial. To the far right is the trochlear groove. The entire quadriceps mechanisms is being pulled medially. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1607781129064-9Q1D3JRK1AS1GVF8D3G8/Screen+Shot+2020-12-11+at+9.06.22+PM.png Blog - Medial Patellar Luxation in Cats: Keeping MPLs on your radar for feline patients. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1607866057269-WMQIYUJNY7NSBM3TBR7R/Screen+Shot+2020-12-13+at+8.12.35+AM.png Blog - Medial Patellar Luxation in Cats: Keeping MPLs on your radar for feline patients. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1607866057709-0DT1E8VDI3BCO0G1R1CT/Screen+Shot+2020-12-13+at+8.12.23+AM.png Blog - Medial Patellar Luxation in Cats: Keeping MPLs on your radar for feline patients. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1607866058394-SO94MIZBVOXUVJ2NV72X/Screen+Shot+2020-12-13+at+8.12.01+AM.png Blog - Medial Patellar Luxation in Cats: Keeping MPLs on your radar for feline patients. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1607863615541-RC0ZIGNGSKWUD712WTMJ/Screen+Shot+2020-12-12+at+9.00.05+AM.png Blog - Medial Patellar Luxation in Cats: Keeping MPLs on your radar for feline patients. The lateral retinaculum is imbricated and the medial aspect is typically not closed, or closed with the intention of not over tightening the medial aspect. https://www.vetsurginfo.com/blog/blog-post-one-axkzl monthly 0.5 2020-12-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1607776792586-5GVO39VDNHZ7WG24I6DW/IMG_0713.jpeg Blog - Simple Technique to Improve Cosmetics Post Enucleation Here is the same cat from previous images, well-healed approximately 3 months later. Note the pleasant closed eye look. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1607774982629-5IFKR5YR6GICXZARXY7C/Screen+Shot+2020-12-11+at+8.25.08+PM.png Blog - Simple Technique to Improve Cosmetics Post Enucleation Subperiosteal sutures are zig-zagged across the empty globe. This provides a scaffold for the subcutaneous tissue to avoid a concave appearance long term. A longer lasting suture is selected such as 3.0 PDS in this illustration. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1607773546822-O1X6FUQ6B4KSIMVNDTAP/IMG_9303+2.jpeg Blog - Simple Technique to Improve Cosmetics Post Enucleation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1607775373896-ZKEUU3IVZLTO4SZQZV8O/IMG_2288+2.jpeg Blog - Simple Technique to Improve Cosmetics Post Enucleation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1607775413918-8PSHX4KV00ITAC7ODO5R/IMG_2271.jpeg Blog - Simple Technique to Improve Cosmetics Post Enucleation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1607776609893-7QRWQF4WCMLH7CZBDJ5S/IMG_9195.jpeg Blog - Simple Technique to Improve Cosmetics Post Enucleation Immediate post operative view of completed enucleation with scaffold in place below. https://www.vetsurginfo.com/about daily 0.75 2020-12-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1609297169093-2ZLKSAOI5KCVVOM9Z9SU/Screenshot+2020-12-29+at+7.57.40+PM.jpeg About - As for my background, I grew up in Birmingham Michigan and then went to Georgetown University for undergraduate studies. I returned to Michigan to attend Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. From there I went to Auburn University for a Small Animal Rotating Internship. I stayed there for my residency (3yrs) in surgery and masters degree. There after, I became board-certified in surgery and worked at Oklahoma State University as faculty before moving to Richmond Virginia as a private pratice surgeon. Currently, I own my own practice, Veterinary Specialists of Hanover, in Mechanicsville, Viriginia. I am very happy to help pets and their owners as a veterinarian and veterinary surgeon. Thank you for visiting my blog! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1607779470000-TGUC6MTGEML8PGWQN53U/Screen+Shot+2020-12-09+at+10.37.03+AM.png About - A practical take on small animal surgery. My name is Kristy Broaddus, and I am a veterinarian who is board-certified in small animal surgery. When I am in surgery, I am constantly having my very agreeable staff (lol) take pictures. I will publish these pictures with descriptions in order to try to help other veterinarians, to learn better techniques or simply show current techniques clearly. If you would like to see any particular surgery, please let me know and I will do my best to give a pictorial view. https://www.vetsurginfo.com/contact daily 0.75 2020-12-13 https://www.vetsurginfo.com/gallery-1 daily 0.75 2024-02-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/226c6f2e-bf16-4660-9b96-1d32e7bed233/Screenshot+2024-02-17+at+12.48.38+PM.png https://www.vetsurginfo.com/menu-4 daily 0.75 2025-11-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/242527bb-8ab5-4a12-840b-5faf0686265d/Screenshot+2024-02-21+at+6.47.48+PM.png Tips for Veterinarians https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1708261203055-PTCPYV2LCKKJHOCTGHY6/Screenshot+2024-02-08+at+8.50.46+PM.png Tips for Veterinarians https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/b62d5137-bace-4f6e-a0a3-e1b836c40b1d/Screenshot+2023-10-23+at+8.11.25+PM.png Tips for Veterinarians https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/c40dec98-26c5-480d-8c32-b621f1bfe537/image000000.jpeg Tips for Veterinarians https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/bc7ab1fe-f2eb-461a-8d5c-4e71740e8030/Screenshot+2024-02-18+at+8.12.31+AM.png Tips for Veterinarians https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/2b89dd42-6334-4c1f-94bf-7e693d99830a/image000000.jpeg Tips for Veterinarians https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/28d36df9-98db-4225-a884-d63576f9b067/IMG_4049.jpeg Tips for Veterinarians https://www.vetsurginfo.com/radiographic-signs-of-ccl-disease daily 0.75 2024-02-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/0fa1c507-8a7a-4269-b1d9-7dd2a5e4d23a/ccl+lat.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/6f4a7cd7-682e-4816-b4ad-9dfc24743242/ccl+lat.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/0c17e67a-2318-40d6-9f8a-ce63141597df/Screenshot+2024-02-21+at+6.47.48+PM.png https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1708286453217-YCKLSKDXB6YHU6IFOTZD/Screenshot%2B2024-02-17%2Bat%2B12.48.38%2BPM.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/442bcd57-f1ac-4830-b976-a899ee69bd01/Screenshot+2024-02-18+at+3.28.36+PM.png https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/69ba91c9-dcc0-43d1-902f-eada530bd758/D3318DEE-9A02-47D2-8E9E-B213C76CF891.jpeg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/cddb6f46-76de-42dd-9c1d-c54733a5f336/Screenshot+2024-02-18+at+3.28.15+PM.png https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/2a96d745-0e00-4c52-b4f9-535feb997f24/Screenshot+2024-02-18+at+7.34.19+PM.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/afb0c270-78f7-4ff0-9b49-cd99a232800c/Screenshot+2024-02-18+at+7.34.09+PM.jpg https://www.vetsurginfo.com/new-page daily 0.75 2025-11-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/6a7d8b7d-6fa8-4498-8b21-63e06c6695dd/IMG_4049.jpeg https://www.vetsurginfo.com/picture-gallery daily 0.75 2024-02-17 https://www.vetsurginfo.com/picture-gallery/project-two-mygz5 monthly 0.5 2021-09-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/bbae42c2-a61b-4799-8f97-b510529b698f/IMG_8720.jpeg Picture Gallery for Owners - Abnormal Wound Healing (click image for more examples) This is 7 days post operative. This incision is red, opening at the top and drainage is noted. This is not normal and requires medical attention including a culture sample. This dog licked her incision when the e-collar was removed. Several strains of bacteria were cultured and a higher power antibiotic was required. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/6b3cfc01-482f-45cb-86a3-8a75c8fb7fbc/IMG_8721.jpeg Picture Gallery for Owners - Abnormal Wound Healing (click image for more examples) For comparison, this is the same dog, opposite leg, healing well at day 7. Minor routine scabbing is noted at the bottom of the incision. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/d1bf28ab-2ac5-45d2-9d23-fd6a29acc2aa/IMG_6547.jpeg Picture Gallery for Owners - Abnormal Wound Healing (click image for more examples) Day 10: this dog licked her incision resulting in a full opening of the wound. A culture was taken and specific antibiotics were started. Plate removal was eventually necessary. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/35479e66-463c-4074-a0c2-d3b1856ffd08/IMG_5861.jpeg Picture Gallery for Owners - Abnormal Wound Healing (click image for more examples) Mild scabbing but relatively normal incisional healing at day 14. No further therapy warranted beyond wearing the cone an additional 5 days. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/6eab8e0f-6e01-4865-91aa-d8b5b7a49652/IMG_4442.jpeg Picture Gallery for Owners - Abnormal Wound Healing (click image for more examples) This is a 14 day recheck. This incision has been licked and so edges are not healing well. Likely a superficial infection. Additional time with e-collar was advised. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1631361029237-3ZP7YASKXSDVS2TIPWP2/IMG_4445.jpg Picture Gallery for Owners - Abnormal Wound Healing (click image for more examples) This is the opposite knee for comparison. Healing is routine on this knee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1631361135672-H23YGLDLVXF8K507BAOD/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-09-11%2Bat%2B7.44.23%2BAM.jpg Picture Gallery for Owners - Abnormal Wound Healing (click image for more examples) This is a 2 week recheck in a dog that licked the wound. The top of the incision is slightly open, superficially. Additional time with the cone is warranted. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/67b9b80d-5f08-4505-a8f8-4aee17dc1c7c/IMG_0968.jpeg Picture Gallery for Owners - Abnormal Wound Healing (click image for more examples) Some wounds are allowed to close on their own, allowing infection to drain out. Rinsing/cold water lavage at home will facilitate the process. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/3b05e058-c4ca-43d3-bf28-b3470a0fa0d6/Screen+Shot+2021-09-11+at+7.54.23+AM.png Picture Gallery for Owners - Abnormal Wound Healing (click image for more examples) Loss of skin near the incision. This progressed to the open wound in the next slide. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/f0e6d88a-2fef-4ab0-a48c-1c1fe6c0f569/Screen+Shot+2021-09-11+at+7.53.25+AM.png Picture Gallery for Owners - Abnormal Wound Healing (click image for more examples) Severe wound breakdown due to infection. This required a surgical wound cleaning and closure. A culture was taken and antibiotics were administered. Eventually the plate was removed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/c420ae7d-73eb-4c1e-bbe4-528e3233c290/IMG_2858.jpeg Picture Gallery for Owners - Abnormal Wound Healing (click image for more examples) Excessive scabbing but luckily a dry incision. Sutures are missing from central portion. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/1676732494728-P4T6M7Q06I77NCY2RU3U/IMG_2993.jpg Picture Gallery for Owners - Abnormal Wound Healing (click image for more examples) This is a classic look of a surgery site that has a deep implant infection. This dog was using the leg well but could not heal the small red lesion (sore) that would open up and drain periodically. In these cases, plate removal is necessary for the patient to clear the infection. After surgical removal of the plate, the dog does well. Rest is required for approximately 4 weeks to allow the bone to heal. Approximately 5-10% of dogs will need the TPLO plate removed. https://www.vetsurginfo.com/picture-gallery/project-one-dlgzd monthly 0.5 2021-09-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/38d022a4-7132-47b7-9894-65ea85c303ad/IMG_8694.jpeg Picture Gallery for Owners - Normal healing (click image for more examples) Side view of incision with mild bruising and no drainage (72 hours). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/c947e56a-d1f0-47ff-b3d4-1605e21a6643/Screen+Shot+2021-09-10+at+9.15.23+PM.png Picture Gallery for Owners - Normal healing (click image for more examples) Here is post operative picture at 72 hours that is healing well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/5b1570c9-38db-484d-879e-de29406130a4/IMG_0382.jpeg Picture Gallery for Owners - Normal healing (click image for more examples) Moderate but extensive bruising and swelling is experienced by some dogs. No drainage noted. This is a variation of normal. This dog is at 72 hours. No additional action necessary. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/73c76633-5907-4f93-bdf0-6262ad9fd32c/Screen+Shot+2021-09-11+at+6.02.32+AM.png Picture Gallery for Owners - Normal healing (click image for more examples) Normal swelling that occurs in hocks (ankles) after surgery. This is day 3 for this dog who had bilateral knee surgery. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd4a8679c252757ae04b776/f41e3150-eb54-4748-be59-2d0c742e938e/Screen+Shot+2021-09-11+at+1.35.40+PM.png Picture Gallery for Owners - Normal healing (click image for more examples) Front view of swelling of ankles 3 days post operative. No drainage and all sutures intact. Both knees had surgery.