At Merrimack Veterinary Hospital we perform a wide variety of surgical procedures including traditional soft tissue and orthopedics, radiosurgery (used to coagulate bleeding vessels), cryosurgery (freezing of tissues), exodontics (tooth extractions), and even endosurgery (minimally invasive surgery using endoscopes) such as laparoscopic spays.  Having a variety of surgical options allows us to select the most appropriate technique for a given condition.  For procedures that require specialist expertise, we can usually have a surgeon with the necessary skill set come to the practice at a pre-arranged time to perform the surgery.  Thus, your pet can still remain under our doctor's supervision. 

We take great pride in our surgical abilities and work diligently to achieve safe and successful outcomes.  Part of this pride comes from our very modern approach to  anesthesia and pain management, as they are integral parts of any surgery.  With this comes a great deal of preparation prior to every surgery to make it as safe as possible.  

Pre-anesthetic blood work is critical to this preparation.  It is required for all canine and feline patients undergoing anesthesia in order to help identify underlying problems with internal organs and to establish baseline medical values.  This lab work will determine which anesthetic drugs are safest for your pet.  The doctors and staff will recommend which blood work is best based on your pet's age and relevant medical history.  Note that an annual felv/fiv test is required for all cats prior to anesthesia to prevent contagious disease transfer.  Be aware that conditions which increase risk associated with sedation and anesthesia include: obesity, diabetes, infection, blunt trauma, kidney disease, heart disease, liver disease, cancer, endocrine disease, and extreme stress or anxiety.

Please review or print out the anesthesia/surgical consent form.  We require you read and sign this form prior to any anesthetic, surgical, or dental procedure.