Maritime Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Center

Orthopedic surgery encompasses a wide range of joint and bone surgery. Orthopedic procedures aim to correct disorders of the musculoskeletal system, including (but not limited to):

• Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO)

• Bone fractures

• Bone tumors (amputations)

• Arthrodesis

• Patellar luxation repair

• Elbow arthroscopy for medial coronoid disease

• Femoral head ostectomy (FHO)

Minimally invasive surgery is a type of surgery that allows for less discomfort and quicker recovery times for your pet. This type of surgery is performed through several small incisions instead of one large incision. When the surgery involves a joint, the abdomen, or the chest, a small fiberoptic scope attached to a high-definition camera is inserted through one of the incisions to provide visualization of the surgical site, while instruments are passed through other incisions to perform the procedure.

• Arthroscopy: Arthroscopy (or arthroscopic surgery) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed under anesthesia. A tiny camera—just a fraction of an inch wide—is placed into a joint to address certain conditions with specialized instruments. Arthroscopy can be used as a stand-alone service, or to complement traditional procedures in addressing joint issues.

• Laparoscopy: For this minimally invasive surgery, a laparoscope (camera) is inserted into the abdomen through a small incision.

Soft tissue surgery includes a variety of surgical treatments from foreign body removal to hernia repair to organ biopsies. These procedures involve the organs, tissues, and skin.

Soft Tissue Procedures:

• Abdominal exploratory surgery

• Thoracic (chest) surgery

• Tumor/mass removal

• Hepatobiliary

• Urogenital (e.g. cystotomy, perineal urethrostomy)

• GI (e.g. intestinal biopsy, resection/anastomosis, splenectomy)

• Respiratory (brachycephalic syndrome, laryngeal paralysis)

• Laparoscopic procedures (prophylactic gastropexy, liver biopsy)

A referral appointment will be needed to evaluate your pet’s condition—including suitability for anesthesia—and to discuss surgical options and post-operative care.

Experienced emergency veterinarians are on staff 24/7 to perform emergency surgeries seen through the emergency service. These surgeries may address:

• Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) or “Bloat”

• Ingested objects (i.e. foreign body)

• Exploratory abdominal surgery

• Internal hemorrhage

• C-section

• Pyometra

• Lacerations & penetrating wounds (e.g. dog bites, impalements)

• During surgery, doctors and technicians closely monitor vital signs including heartbeat, oxygen level, and blood pressure. Afterwards, pets awaken in our heated recovery area for warmth and comfort. Technicians are present during the entire recovery process to ensure patient safety.

• Physical rehabilitation may be incorporated to shorten recovery time and improve mobility. Each treatment option is presented with the same goals: to reduce discomfort, improve mobility, and maintain the highest possible quality of life for your pet!