A salivary gland cyst, also known as a sialocele, is a fluid-filled cavity that forms when the natural flow of saliva into the dog’s mouth cavity is disrupted. An abnormality in the salivary system, such as trauma, can cause saliva to accumulate in a major salivary gland or the tissues around it. Usually, surgical treatment (sialoadenectomy) is the best solution for canine sialocele. But what about its cost? How much does sialocele dog surgery cost?
The cost dog’s salivary glands/sialocele surgery range anywhere from $1500 to $2500. The total cost will vary greatly based on the type of procedure performed, the fees charged by your veterinarian/vet reputation, and the region in which you live.
Usually, in the case of sialocele, regardless of the cause of the problem, your veterinary doctor will almost certainly suggest that your pet undergo surgery to have the abnormal salivary glands, as well as any sublingual glands, removed.
Some Extra Costs
- In most cases, your veterinarian will advise you to carry out your dog’s CBC (Complete Blood Count) along with ultrasound, radiography, or x-rays to locate the affected glands. In some severe cases, vets are also advised to conduct urine tests in order to check the kidney status (whether or not they are able to regulate any heavy anesthetic drugs). All these can cost an additional $300 to $500.
- After the surgery, your veterinary doctor may suggest some pain medication to help your canine companion recover from the severe pain. This will help your dog get back to normal more quickly. These post-operative medicines can cost around $50 to $100.
- Your vet may want to monitor how well your dog is healing for the next 24-48 hours. So, they may keep your pup in the hospital after the procedure. This can also cost some extra $30 to $50.
- After surgery, you will need to plan a post-operative visit with the veterinarian some weeks after the treatment. This appointment/follow-up visit can cost around $25 to $35.
Does your pet’s health insurance cover the cost of sialocele surgery?
Yes, pet insurance companies will usually cover the sialocele surgery in dogs. The monthly premium for single-pup insurance ranges typically from $25 to $45.
How is Sialoadenectomy performed in canines?
During sialoadenectomy, one or more of the dog’s salivary glands will be removed. At the very start, before giving any incisions, the dog will first be put under general anesthesia.
After that, an incision will be made into the afflicted side. Depending on the kind, this incision may either be done through the neck or in another body section. The blood supply to the affected gland will be severed. After that, a significant portion of the gland will be excised and severed from the salivary duct.
After the surgeon verifies that the glands have been extracted from the capsules, the gap that was formerly occupied by the glands will be sutured shut, and a drainage tube will be placed. The skin will then be sewn together using non-absorbable sutures.
Following the completion of the surgical procedure, a bandage will be placed, and a further visit will be scheduled at some time in the near or far future.
Sialoadenectomy Prognosis
The prognosis of sialoadenectomy is quite good. Following surgical removal, salivary mucoceles in dogs are usually cured, and your pet should be able to live a normal life when treatment has been completed.
Conclusion
During this procedure, one or more of a dog’s salivary glands will be removed surgically. This is an extremely rare type of operation. The cost of surgical removal of the dog’s salivary glands often ranges from $1500 to $2500. The total costs depend on a number of things like the size of the sialocele, the dog’s age, health status, and the length of time your dog has to be in the hospital. In addition to the cost of the operation, there will be additional costs of x-rays, hospitalization, and medications.
