What is a Mastectomy?

Mastectomy is a surgical procedure involving the removal of one or more mammary glands. It is commonly recommended for dogs and cats diagnosed with mammary tumors. Early intervention is crucial as mammary tumors can vary from benign to highly malignant and may metastasize if not treated promptly.

Indications:

1. Mammary Tumors:
   • Mastectomy is indicated when mammary tumors are detected.
   • Surgical removal directly reduces the risk of cancer spreading and alleviates discomfort associated with these tumors.

Procedure:

1. Surgical Technique:

   • The affected mammary gland(s) are removed.
   • The goal is complete tumor removal with clean histological margins using the simplest technique.
   • Unilateral mastectomy is currently recommended for the prevention of second tumor development associated with a regional mastectomy.

2. Postoperative Care:

   • Monitoring for complications such as seroma/hematoma, wound infection, dehiscence of the incision, hind-limb edema, and tumor recurrence.
   • Pain management is an important part of postoperative care.

Benefits:

1. Cancer Removal:
   • Directly removes tumors, reducing the risk of metastasis and recurrence.
2. Pain Relief:
   • Alleviates discomfort associated with mammary tumors.
3. Improved Quality of Life:
   • Allows your pet to enjoy a more comfortable life post-recovery.

Remember that individual cases may vary, and consulting a veterinarian is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.