Post-Op Care Routine for Canine Eyelid Mast Cell Tumors96

Mast cell tumors (MCTs) are the most common type of skin tumor in dogs. They can occur anywhere on the body, but they are most commonly found on the eyelids. MCTs are usually benign, but they can be locally aggressive and can sometimes spread to other parts of the body.

The treatment of choice for MCTs is surgical removal. Surgery is typically curative for benign MCTs, but it may not be effective for malignant MCTs. In some cases, radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be necessary after surgery to prevent the MCT from recurring.

After surgery, it is important to follow a regular post-operative care routine to help your dog recover and prevent complications. The following is a general post-operative care routine for dogs that have had an eyelid MCT removed:
Keep your dog calm and quiet for the first 24 hours after surgery. This will help to prevent bleeding and swelling.
Apply a cold compress to your dog's eye for 15 minutes at a time, several times a day. This will help to reduce swelling and pain.
Give your dog pain medication as directed by your veterinarian. This will help to keep your dog comfortable.
Keep your dog's eye clean. Use a cotton ball or gauze pad dipped in warm water to gently clean the eye several times a day.
Do not let your dog rub or scratch its eye. This could damage the incision and lead to infection.
Take your dog to the veterinarian for follow-up appointments as directed. Your veterinarian will check your dog's healing progress and make sure that the MCT has not recurred.

In most cases, dogs recover well from eyelid MCT surgery. However, it is important to follow the post-operative care routine carefully to help prevent complications.

Additional Tips for Post-Op Care* If your dog is experiencing any pain, swelling, or discharge from the eye, contact your veterinarian immediately.
* If your dog's incision is bleeding, apply pressure to the area and contact your veterinarian.
* Do not give your dog any aspirin or ibuprofen without first talking to your veterinarian. These medications can interfere with blood clotting and make the incision bleed more.
* Keep your dog's environment clean and free of dust and debris. This will help to prevent infection.
* Do not let your dog swim or bathe for at least 10 days after surgery. This will help to keep the incision clean and dry.
* If your dog has a cone, make sure that it is kept on at all times. This will prevent your dog from rubbing or scratching its eye.
By following these post-operative care instructions, you can help your dog recover quickly and safely from eyelid MCT surgery.

2024-11-01

Previous：Short-Legged Dog Breeds with Black Coats

Next：Post-Cesarean Section Dog Care Routine