Soft Tissue Surgery
Soft tissue surgery refers to procedures involving the skin, muscles, and internal organs—many of which are essential for improving or preserving your pet’s health and quality of life. At Douglassville Veterinary Hospital, our experienced surgical team uses advanced techniques and state-of-the-art monitoring equipment to perform these procedures with precision, safety, and compassion.
Common Soft Tissue Surgeries We Perform
Soft tissue surgeries may be elective or medically necessary, depending on your pet’s condition. Below are some of the surgeries we routinely perform:
Tumor and Mass Removal
Surgical removal of benign or malignant growths to reduce discomfort, prevent complications, and support long-term health.
Ventral Bulla Osteotomy (feline)
A procedure used to access and remove infected tissue or tumors from the middle ear in cats.
Reconstructive Flap Surgery (axial or local flaps)
Used to close large wounds or after tumor removal, these specialized techniques promote proper healing and preserve skin function.
- Caudal Superficial Epigastric Flap: Transfers skin and underlying tissue from the abdominal area to cover large skin defects.
- Omotransversarius Flap: Relocates skin from the shoulder area to repair wounds or surgical sites on the neck or upper body.
- Flank Fold and Axillary Fold Flaps: Moves skin from the side of the body or underarm to help close wounds or surgical areas in nearby regions
.
Lymphadenectomy
Surgical removal of lymph nodes (mandibular, prescapular, axillary, inguinal, popliteal) for cancer staging or when lymph nodes are affected by disease.
Perineal Urethrostomy (feline)
Creates a new urinary opening to relieve life-threatening obstructions in male cats with recurrent urinary blockages.
Pinnectomy
Removes part or all of the ear pinna, typically performed to treat ear tumors or severe chronic disease.
Vulvoplasty
Corrects excess skin folds around the vulva that may cause infections or chronic irritation.
Mastectomy
Surgical removal of one or more mammary glands, often performed to treat or prevent the spread of mammary tumors.
Pyometra Ovariohysterectomy
Emergency removal of the uterus and ovaries in female pets suffering from a life-threatening uterine infection (pyometra).
Scrotal Ablation
Complete removal of the scrotum, often performed in conjunction with castration or for treating chronic scrotal issues.
Gastropexy
A preventative procedure that tacks the stomach to the abdominal wall to reduce the risk of gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV or bloat) in dogs.
Surgical Intestinal or Liver Biopsy
Removal of tissue samples for diagnostic evaluation of chronic gastrointestinal or liver diseases.
Foreign Body Surgery
Removal of ingested or embedded foreign objects from the gastrointestinal tract, sometimes requiring resection and reconnection of the intestines.
Cystotomy
Surgical opening of the bladder to remove stones, tumors, or blockages, and to repair damage.
Splenectomy (non-emergent)
Removal of the spleen in cases of non-ruptured tumors, masses, or immune-related conditions.
Anal Sacculectomy
Surgical removal of the anal sacs in select cases of anal sac carcinoma or chronic disease.
Why Soft Tissue Surgery May Be Needed
Your pet may require surgery for a variety of reasons, including:
- Removal of Cancerous or Benign Tumors: To prevent disease progression and improve quality of life.
- Correction of Congenital Defects: To restore normal function and improve long-term comfort.
- Treatment of Injuries: To repair damage from trauma or accidents.
- Managing Chronic Infections: When medication alone isn’t enough to resolve persistent issues.
- Resolving Obstructive Conditions: To restore healthy function in the digestive, urinary, or respiratory systems.
Surgical Care from Start to Finish
Before any surgery, we perform a thorough exam and diagnostics—including bloodwork—to ensure your pet is a good candidate. During surgery, we closely monitor anesthesia and vital signs. Afterward, we provide effective pain relief, personalized recovery plans, and follow-up care to support a smooth, comfortable recovery.
Schedule a Consultation
If your pet has a condition that may require soft tissue surgery, we’re here to help. Call Douglassville Veterinary Hospital at (610) 385-4848 to schedule a consultation and explore the best treatment options for your pet. If you are a referring veterinarian, please fill out our Referring Veterinarian form here.
Explore Our Complete List of Veterinary Services in Douglassville, Pennsylvania
- Ophthalmic Procedures
- Advanced Dentistry
- Cardiology
- Exotic Pets
- Counseling & End of Life Care
- Orthopedic Surgeries
- Puppy & Kitten Care
- Spay & Neuter
- Vaccinations
- Adult Wellness
- Internal Medicine
- General Surgery & Anesthesia
- Laboratory & Diagnostics
- Senior Wellness
- Microchipping
- Abdominal Ultrasounds
