Introduction
Introduction
As a pet science blog author, I’ve always been fascinated by the intricacies of animal health and the various procedures that contribute to their well-being. One such procedure is surgery, which, despite its necessity, can be a source of concern for many pet owners. In this article, I’ll delve into the process of closing surgical incisions, the materials used, and the factors that can affect healing, all while sharing some personal experiences to provide a more relatable perspective.
Closing an Incision
Just as in human medicine, animal surgeries often involve making incisions that penetrate beyond the skin, reaching deeper layers of tissue. These layers include the subcutaneous layer, which is made up of fat and connective tissue, and the muscular layer. Proper closure of these layers is crucial for optimal healing.
When it comes to closing an incision, it’s essential to address all three layers—muscle, subcutaneous, and skin—separately. The skin incision can be closed using sutures, staples, or surgical adhesive, often referred to as skin glue. The choice of closure method depends on various factors such as the location of the incision, the pet’s activity level, and any other factors that might impede wound healing.
Suture Materials
Suture materials are the threadlike substances used to close incisions. They come in absorbable and nonabsorbable varieties. Absorbable sutures are designed to be broken down by the body over several weeks and are commonly used for muscle and subcutaneous layers. They are also an option for closing the skin layer in some small animals. The advantage of absorbable sutures is that they are less likely to be removed by the animal through licking or scratching, and they eliminate the need for a follow-up appointment to remove the stitches.
On the other hand, nonabsorbable sutures are not broken down by the body and must be manually removed. They are often used for skin closure but require a return visit to the vet for suture removal, typically days to weeks after the procedure.
Staples and Adhesives
Staples can be used internally to clamp specific types of tissue, such as small blood vessels, known as vascular clips. While staples are most commonly used for skin closure, they can also be employed for incisions in the intestine or stomach. Internal staples are made of metal and remain in the animal for life, while those on the skin must be removed with a special instrument.
Surgical adhesive, or tissue glue, is an alternative for closing very small skin incisions. This adhesive binds the skin edges and is eventually removed by the body or falls off naturally.
Causes of Delayed Healing
The body’s ability to heal is truly remarkable, with most incisions healing sufficiently within seven to ten days to withstand significant tension. However, several factors can delay this process:
Excessive Activity
Sutures and staples are strong, but excessive movement can put tension on them, slowing down healing and potentially causing the sutures to pull out. To prevent this, pets should be kept relatively inactive until the incision has healed, typically for 10 to 14 days post-surgery.
Licking or Scratching
Pets that lick or scratch at their incisions can reopen them. To prevent this, Elizabethan collars (or e-collars) are often used to restrict access to the incision site. Other collars, such as No-Bite collars or inflatable “donut” collars, can also be effective. Bandaging or using a sock on the hind foot can further reduce the risk of scratching.
Infection or Fluid Accumulation
Infection at the incision site or the buildup of fluid or pus can slow down healing and weaken sutures. Keeping incisions clean and dry, and preventing pets from licking them, is crucial. In some cases, drains may be necessary to manage fluid accumulation, and antibiotics may be prescribed if an infection occurs.
Reaction to Suture Material
Some pets may react to suture material, causing inflammation or pus accumulation. This reaction usually resolves once the sutures are absorbed or removed, but in some cases, the incision may need to be reopened and the sutures replaced with a different material.
Medications and Health Conditions
Certain medications, such as corticosteroids, can slow down the healing process. Additionally, nutritional deficiencies and health conditions like kidney or liver failure, diabetes, cancers, and hormonal imbalances can also delay healing.
Conclusion
Understanding the process of incision closure and the factors that can affect healing is crucial for pet owners. By being aware of these aspects and working closely with your veterinarian, you can help ensure a smooth recovery for your pet. As someone who has experienced the worry and relief that comes with a pet’s surgery, I hope this information provides you with the knowledge and reassurance you need during this time.