Total mastectomy in severe necrotic mastitis in a pet goat complicated by a post‐operative generalised emphysema

Abstract

A total mastectomy was the treatment of choice in a 10‐year‐old pet doe Pika with a history of severe necrotic mastitis secondary to a precocious udder. Following an elliptical skin incision, the mammary tissue was bluntly excised. Because of a large surgical defect, severe skin tension was needed to close the wound completely. A passive drain was placed in the surgical site to remove excess fluid, and the animal received antibiotic and anti‐inflammatory treatment. On the fifth day after the surgery, the drain was removed and palpation revealed an extensive subcutaneous emphysema at the surgical site as well as the back and neck of the animal. The antibiotic treatment was prolonged, and the animal kept for observation. After 3 weeks, the wound had healed completely, and the doe was discharged.