Anal Sacculectomy Surgery

Relieving Your Pet’s Discomfort: Introducing Anal Sacculectomy Surgery 

At Kind Veterinary Care, Noah's Ark Veterinary Office and Southwick Veterinary Hospital we understand how distressing it can be to see your furry friend uncomfortable due to recurring anal gland issues. Whether it's chronic infections, abscesses, or other complications, we’re excited to introduce a permanent solution: anal sacculectomy surgery.

This cutting-edge procedure offers a new lease on life for pets suffering from persistent anal sac problems. Here’s everything you need to know about this surgery, why it might be right for your pet, and how we ensure the best outcomes with our skilled team.

What Is Anal Sacculectomy Surgery?

The anal sacs (also known as anal glands) are two small glands located near your pet's rectum. While these glands are a natural part of your pet’s anatomy, they can sometimes cause significant issues, such as:

  • Chronic infections
  • Abscesses
  • Impaction or difficulty expressing them

Anal sacculectomy is a surgical procedure where one or both anal sacs are carefully removed to eliminate these recurring problems.

When Is Anal Sacculectomy Recommended?

While most anal sac issues can be managed with regular gland expressions, medications/supplements, or dietary changes, surgery may be necessary in cases of:

  • Repeated infections or abscesses that do not resolve with treatment
  • Suspected anal sac tumors
  • Persistent pain or discomfort that impacts your pet's quality of life

Our veterinarians will work closely with you to determine if surgery is the right choice for your pet.

What to Expect During the Procedure

  1. Pre-Surgical Assessment:
    Before the surgery, we perform a thorough physical exam and diagnostic testing, including blood work and imaging, to ensure your pet is healthy enough for the procedure.

  2. The Surgery:
    Using advanced techniques, the anal sac is injected with a biocompatible material to help clearly outline the gland and its boundaries. This step ensures precision and minimizes the risk of complications. The sac is then carefully removed, preserving nearby nerves and tissues to prevent incontinence.

  3. Post-Surgical Care:
    After surgery, your pet will receive pain management, antibiotics, and a customized recovery plan. Most pets recover quickly and return to their happy, comfortable selves within a couple of weeks.

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Potential Complications of Anal Sacculectomy

While anal sacculectomy is generally a safe and effective procedure, as with any surgery, there are potential risks. Understanding these helps set realistic expectations and ensure you’re prepared for post-surgical care:

  1. Infection: Post-operative infection is a risk but can usually be managed with antibiotics and proper wound care.
  2. Fecal Incontinence: Damage to surrounding nerves during surgery could lead to temporary or, in rare cases, permanent incontinence. This risk is minimized with careful surgical technique.
  3. Stricture Formation: Scar tissue at the surgical site can lead to narrowing, potentially causing difficulty defecating.
  4. Abscess or Drainage Issues: If remnants of the gland are left, they could result in recurring infections or abscesses.
  5. Delayed Healing: Factors like age, concurrent illnesses, or improper care can slow recovery.

At all of our clinics, we take every precaution to minimize these risks. Our skilled surgeons use meticulous techniques and provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure your pet's smooth recovery.

Why Choose Kind Veterinary Care for Anal Sacculectomy?

At our clinics, our experienced veterinarians and compassionate team provide:

  • State-of-the-art facilities
  • Modern surgical techniques to reduce risk
  • Comprehensive care from consultation to recovery

We’re dedicated to improving your pet’s health and happiness through tailored solutions.


Ready to Help Your Pet Feel Their Best?

If you believe your pet could benefit from anal sacculectomy, or if you have questions, our team is here to help. Call us at 314-394-0083 or book a consultation online.

Visual Guide to the Procedure 

Including visuals can help clients understand the procedure better. Here are the types of images we could incorporate:

  • Diagram of Anal Sac Anatomy
                     

  • Procedure
                

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