Surgery

Surgery describes the treatment of diseases and injuries through mechanical intervention on the body. This usually takes place under various forms of anesthesia (numbing). During the procedure, bodily functions and the depth of anesthesia are monitored using modern equipment.

INHALT
Classification Preparation Aftercare
Classification

In veterinary medicine, a distinction is made between soft tissue surgery and bone surgery.

Soft tissue surgery includes all operations that do not take place directly on the bone, such as colic surgery (colic operations in horses) or neurosurgery (operations on the nervous system), as well as all operations on internal organs.

Bone surgery, also known as orthopedic surgery, is further subdivided into:

  • Osteosynthesis (= surgery on broken bones)
  • Endoprosthetics (= artificial replacement of joints)
  • Joint surgery
  • Arthroscopy (= joint endoscopy, see corresponding article)
  • Arthrotomy (= open joint surgery)
  • Spinal surgery

If procedures are performed with small incisions in the skin to insert an endoscope, this is referred to as minimally invasive surgery.

Preparation

For planned surgical procedures, the patient undergoes a preliminary examination and special preparation. In an emergency, it may be necessary to perform surgery immediately.

Aftercare

Good aftercare is essential for a smooth healing process. Depending on the procedure, your veterinary practice will provide you with a plan for the healing phase after the operation.