1027. Standard Operating Procedure for rabbit cheek abscess at Toa Payoh Vets

The following will be the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for rabbits with cheek abscesses with effect from Sep 1, 2012

1. Examination of the mouth for overgrown incisors and molars. Record of size of abscess

2. Advise X-rays or record AMA (Against Medical Advice) if the owner does not want it. Record which cheek tooth is affected and whether there is osteomyelitis of the jaw bone.

3. Sedation and clipping away the hairs

4. General anaesthesia gas using isoflurane gas via mask

5. Open the mouth to check for overgrown molars
 
6. Make a long skin incision in the ventral part

7. Lance the abscess

8. Irrigate the abscess

9. Post-op stay and treatment to express more pus, for 3 days

10. Review in 3 weeks 

11. Take images of pre and post-surgery if possible (see example below).

It is important that the vet advises X-rays as part of provision of a high standard of care. If the owner rejects the advice, this should be recorded in the case sheet.

			Updates and webpage is at: http://www.sinpets.com/rabbits/20120831rabbit_cheek_abscess_treatment_toapayohvets.htm