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OVARIOHYSTERECTOMY IN DOGS AND CATS
Overview
An ovariohysterectomy, or "spay" is the surgical removal of the uterus and ovaries under general anesthesia. This procedure is typically performed around or prior to six months, but can be performed on dogs of any age. The procedure may be elective, or a treatment for a disease process.
Reasons for early ovariohysterectomy
- Vastly decreased chance for development of mammary (breast) cancer
- 200 times less likely if ovariohysterectomy performed before the first estrus
- Eliminates chance of developing a pyometra, or uterine infection
- Eradicates unwanted estrous behavior and associated bleeding
- Eliminates unwanted pregnancies and risks of dystocia (difficult birth)
Risk Factors
Intact females are at risk for pyometra. This condition usually develops 2-3 weeks after the last known estrous cycle.
Exam, Screening Tests and Imaging
Medical workup for a routine ovariohysterectomy generally consists of a complete physical examination. Additional tests for older dogs include a complete blood count, serum chemistry and urinalysis. Abdominal radiographs (x-rays) and possibly ultrasound may be necessary in dogs presenting with pyometra and dystocia.
Surgery
Surgical incsion is usually made along the ventral abdomen, but flank approaches have been reported . There are many variations in techniques to perform surgery but in general the ovarian and uterine blood vessels are ligated with suture or clips and both ovaries and the uterus is removed. Laparascopic ovariohysterctomy may be performed and associated with less post operative pain and faster recovery times.
Surgical photo of a routine ovariohysterectomy
Complications following Ovariohysterectomy
Ovariohysterectomy can lead to mild complications such as incisional bruising, swelling and infection. More serious complications such as hemorrhage and urinary obstruction are rare but can be life-threatening. Ovariohysterectomy can be more difficult in larger or obese animals and may be associated with more complications. Urinary incontinence has been reported after surgery and may require lifelong medical treatment.
Aftercare following Ovariohysterectomy
Aftercare includes house rest, with no running, jumping or rough play for two weeks following surgery. Pain medications are often prescribed for several days following surgery. An Elizabethan collar may be necessary to prevent licking of the surgical wound. Further treatments may be necessary following ovariohysterectomy for treatment of pyometra or other disease.
Prognosis
The prognosis is excellent for routine ovariohysterectomy. Prognosis is good following ovariohysterectomy for pyometra and dystocia.
Prevention
Early ovariohysterectomy is preventative for the development of pyometra, dystocia and mammary cancer.
—Jason Syrcle, DVM
Small Animal Resident
Editor: Charles McCauley, DVM
Diplomate ACVS
Posted: June 15, 2007
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