Surgery
A Small Animal Surgery Specialist is a veterinarian who has completed advanced training in surgery (including an internship and residency) following their veterinary degree.
What conditions do surgeons treat?
Small animal surgical specialists are trained in soft tissue surgery, orthopaedics as well as neurology. Common procedures performed by specialist surgeons can range from removing masses from internal organs to stabilisation of complex fractures.
How do surgeons work with primary care vets?
Most surgeons are happy to discuss a case with the primary care veterinarian to establish the most appropriate next step in terms of diagnosis or treatment, prior to referral. If a primary care veterinarian finds a problem or condition in an animal that may require diagnostics or surgical treatment that is not able to be performed in a primary care clinic, an animal might be referred to a surgical specialist to do a more thorough physical examination, perform additional diagnostics or a more complex procedure.
Why should I see a Small Animal Surgery Specialist?
Small animal surgical specialists have had extensive advanced training in the field of surgery. Specialty surgery in small animals encompasses the surgical treatment itself, but also involves a thorough physical examination as well as diagnostics leading up to surgical treatment. Small animal surgical specialists typically have access to more advanced diagnostics, as well as more advanced equipment in the operating room.
