Surgery in Dogs – Procedure, Risks and Aftercare

Check-in and Premedication:

Typically, the animal is dropped off at the hospital in the morning. After weighing and placing an IV catheter, the animal receives its sedative injection. This reduces anxiety, stabilizes circulation, and lowers the dose of anesthetics required for anesthesia induction.

Anesthesia Induction:

About 20 minutes later, anesthesia is induced intravenously with propofol or alfaxalone. An endotracheal tube (breathing tube in the trachea) secures the airways and serves to supply the anesthetic gas iso- or sevoflurane. These are very well tolerated. The supply of anesthetic gases is very easy to control, so a stable, adequate depth of anesthesia can be ensured.

Monitoring and Anesthesia Risk in Dogs and Cats:

During the entire operation, connected monitoring devices check the most important organ functions. The extent of monitoring measures during anesthesia depends on the risk classification (ASA classification) of the patient. At a minimum, heart rate, respiratory rate, blood oxygen saturation, expiratory CO₂ (carbon dioxide in exhaled air) and body temperature are recorded. The color of the mucous membranes and their blood flow as well as the depth of anesthesia based on reflexes are also monitored at short intervals. For longer procedures, additional parameters, such as blood sugar levels, are monitored. Warm air blankets prevent hypothermia, infusions ensure organ perfusion. Anesthesia monitoring is performed by a veterinarian not involved in the operation (anesthetist) or by a specially trained veterinary assistant. Anesthesia monitoring contributes significantly to a low anesthesia and surgery risk in dogs and cats.

Surgical Technique:

Whenever possible, clinics use minimally invasive methods such as arthroscopy or laparoscopy. Smaller incisions mean less Pain, less blood loss, less risk of infection and significantly faster recovery after surgery. A surgeon’s experience also affects the operating time. The shortest possible operating times are generally associated with fewer complications during and after surgery.

Wake-up Phase

After the last skin suture, the supply of inhalation agents is interrupted. The tube remains until swallowing and eyelid closure reflexes are reliably present. The assessment of Pain using Pain score systems (e.g. Glasgow scale) controls the further administration of Painkillers (post-analgesia). Medications against Vomiting (antiemetics) reduce Nausea and allow early fluid intake. Monitoring of body temperature and corresponding continuous temperature management remain in place until the animal can stand on its own.