Surgical management of perineal disease in the dog

THE perineum is the part of the body wall that covers the pelvic outlet and surrounds the anal and urogenital canals. Surgical techniques to correct conditions in this area are usually straightforward, and postoperative complications should be infrequent if the procedure is performed by an experienced surgeon. However, due the close proximity of the surgical site to the anus, and the potential for encroachment on vessels and nerves supplying urogenital and anal tissues, severe problems can arise if inadequate preparation is taken. This article outlines some of the more common diseases of the perineum, and discusses the current techniques recommended for their treatment.