Surgery for cats and dogs

Elite surgery for pets

The surgery team of Animal Emergency & Specialty Center of Chattanooga is lead by Katherine Neal, DVM, MS, DACVS and her passionate surgery team. We perform a wide range of small animal orthopedic, soft tissue, oncologic, and emergency procedures. We also offer minimally invasive approaches when possible and alternative treatment options, such as stem cell therapy and platelet-rich plasma (PRP).

 

We pride ourselves on providing an above-the-standard-of-care approach for each of our patients. This is done while keeping the goals of pet owners in mind at all times. We will often offer several treatment options with same-day initial diagnostics. This may include bloodwork, radiographs, or computed tomography (CT scan) in preparation for surgery.

 

We also communicate promptly with your primary veterinarians shortly after consultation or surgery so they know the status of your pet throughout the entire process.

 

Here’s what you can expect for your pet’s surgery at Animal Emergency & Specialty Center of Chattanooga:

  • Expert consultation with the area’s only full-time board-certified surgeon
  • Scheduled post-op care by your surgeon and the surgery team
  • Dedicated nurse throughout your pet’s surgery and recovery, providing excellent continuity of care
  • Multi-modal approach to anesthesia and monitoring, making it as safe and comfortable as possible
  • 24 hour care with onsite highly trained emergency veterinarians who have access to your pet’s surgeon after hours as needed
  • Only full-time after hours surgeon in the area available for emergency surgeries

Our goal is to exceed your expectations by providing thorough and compassionate care, while giving you the peace of mind you need during a stressful time.

Does your pet need surgery?

Call Animal Emergency & Specialty Center of Chattanooga to schedule an appointment with our board-certified surgeon, Dr. Katherine Neal.

(423) 822-8304

Surgical procedures performed at Animal Emergency & Specialty Center of Chattanooga

Below are a few of the most common surgeries performed at AESC:

Orthopedics

  • Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) and lateral suture stabilization
  • Patella luxation corrective procedures
  • Fracture repair with locking and non-locking implant options for all sizes
  • Femoral head and neck osteotomy (FHO)
  • Ligament reconstruction
  • Open and closed reduction for luxations
  • Arthrodesis

Surgical Oncology

  • Thoracotomy for lung tumors
  • Rib resection
  • Splenectomy
  • Liver lobectomy
  • Adrenalectomy +/- venotomy
  • Nephrectomy
  • Excisional biopsies (mass removals) with reconstruction

Soft Tissue

  • Thoracic duct ligation
  • Pericardiectomy
  • Thoracotomy with lung lobectomy
  • Laryngeal arytenoid lateralization (tie-back)
  • Brachycephalic airway syndrome correction
  • Cholecystectomy
  • Portosystemic shunt attenuation
  • Cystotomy
  • Urethrostomy
  • Neoureterocystostomy

Minimally Invasive Surgery

  • Arthroscopy
  • Thorascopy
  • Laparoscopy

Surgical Emergencies

  • Gastric dilatation and volvulus +/- gastrectomy
  • Gastrotomy
  • Enterotomy
  • Intestinal resection and anastomosis
  • Abdominal explore for hemoabdomen
  • OHE (spay) for pyometra
  • Cesarean section

What is a veterinary surgeon?

A veterinary surgeon is an individual that has not only earned a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree, but has continued their training by completing at least a one year general internship and 3 year surgery residency that is acknowledged by the American College of Veterinary Surgeons. Upon completing their training, the individual must pass a rigorous 2 day exam. It is only then that one can call themselves a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (DACVS).

 

This is a prestigious title, as there are only 2,119 veterinary surgeons in the United States as of 2019. Since 2016, veterinary surgeons have been required to maintain their certification by attending continuing education regularly so that they may continue to offer the best surgical care possible.

 

When your pet has surgery by a board-certified surgeon that is current with knowledge and skill set, you can rest assure that they are receiving the best care possible. We encourage you to call us if you have any additional questions regarding the significance of this title and the potential benefits for your pet.

appointment

Scheduling surgery for your pet

While we would love to have a referral from your family veterinarian, it is not a requirement by Dr. Mirae Wood. She encourages owners to be their pet’s advocate when wanting the best care possible. Self-referrals are encouraged, but will be screened at the time of scheduling.

 

If you think your pet is experiencing a surgical emergency, please contact us
immediately or bring your pet into our ER for evaluation.

Refer a patient for surgery

Thank you for your referral. Please follow the button below to refer a patient for surgery with our team. You can also call us at (423) 822-8304.

Online Referral Form