The upper jaw bone of your canine into which are embedded its top layer of teeth is the maxilla region. Almost 26% of mouth tumours in dogs are attributed to oral fibrosarcomas. These originate in the fibrous tissues of your canine’s oral cavity owing to genetic or environmental factors.
Only a qualified vet knows how to remove fibrosarcoma from the maxilla of a dog. Larger breeds like Labradors and Golden Retrievers most commonly display this condition, especially in middle age or older years.
Common clinical signs indicating an oral tumour in your pet pooch include:
- Facial swelling
- A foul odour emanating from the mouth
- Excessive drooling of saliva
- Loss or displacement of teeth
- Discomfort while eating
- Panting
- Loss of appetite
- Reluctance on petting the head
Diagnosis of Oral Fibrosarcoma:
Malignant tumours in the oral region tend to destroy the bone, whereas benign tumours cause the adjacent bone to grow. X-rays help determine whether the tumour has attacked the maxilla or not. A microscopic examination of the tumour tissue is a must to attain an accurate diagnosis.
The biopsy is conducted in a specialised laboratory by a veterinary pathologist who arrives at a conclusion on examining the mass submitted. For the diagnosis, either the entire tumour or a small piece is examined under a microscope. This process allows the pathologist to predict the behaviour and spread of fibrosarcoma.
Typical Progression:
Fibrosarcoma tumours tend to invade surrounding oral tissues but have a lower tendency to infect other organs. Some low-grade fibrosarcomas may behave aggressively. Hence, intense therapy is recommended.
Malignant tumours spread rapidly, and the only way to rule out potential damage is by subjecting your furry pal to further tests. Abdominal ultrasound, lung x-rays, urine analysis, and bloodwork are some suggested practices.
How to Remove Fibrosarcoma from the Maxilla of a Dog?
The standard practice to treat fibrosarcomas in your dog’s maxilla is via surgical removal. To plan the procedure and establish the extent of the disease, a CT scan is taken of your furry pal’s head and neck regions. If lymph nodes under your pet’s chin are affected and enlarged, these too are typically removed during surgery.
When the tumour appears invasive, a portion of your dog’s jaw may have to be removed. It is pleasantly surprising to note that most canines respond well to such surgical interventions. The reason being, these tumours are painful, and their surgical removal provides immense relief.
To minimising the possibility of a tumour recurrence the tissues extracted during surgery are sent for further testing. An examination at this stage helps to predict the probability of a local recurrence or spread. A qualified pathologist, after careful examination, suggests if further treatments are necessary.
Radiation treatment may be prescribed, the duration of which is determined by your dog’s specific needs. Chemotherapy is mostly less effective on fibrosarcomas and, if at all, is administered in combination with radiation and surgery.
Nursing Your Pet after Treatment:
Making your loyal companion wear a conical shield prevents damage to the region that has undergone surgery. Your veterinarian will advise you on the special diet (if any) your pet requires after surgery.
In the initial postoperative period, avoid examining the surgery site, which is yet to heal fully. Should you notice your pet bleeding or developing swelling in the oral region, consult your vet without delay.
With prompt and proper fibrosarcoma treatment, you can hope to achieve a favourable outcome. If at all fibrosarcomas recur in the same area, proactively monitor your dog. Despite being a malignant tumour, fibrosarcoma does not spread rampantly like other cancerous tumours.
Once you know the process of how to remove fibrosarcoma from the maxilla of a dog, rely on the professional skills of veterinary surgeons who offer specialised programs to mentor and train you adequately.
