Scared of surgery need help please

Question
My rat needs surgery to have a tumor removed. Not the typical kind rats get (female mammry tumors) but some tumor on her back by her sholder. I am so worried right now because my husband said that he doesnt want to pay that much money for the rat to die during surgery because statistics show death rate is hiiiigeeerh  for rats to survive surgery.
My vet is an exotic animal doctor and is experienced but I want to make sure he does it right.  
What can I ask him in order to be sure he will do everything that is supposed to be done to keep my baby from dyeing before, during, and after surgery?

thansk


Answer
Hi Kacie

Not sure why I took so long to get this...but I am sorry for taking so long to see this question.

Anyhow, do not let surgery scare you. It is totally normal for a vet to tell you that there are risks, but there are risks for humans as well. As long as your vet is a qualified and skilled surgeon he will provide your rat with the best care he can give.

The vet should do some blood work to check her out prior to surgery to be sure she is healthy and will be able to withstand surgery. This can determine how long she should safely remain under anesthesia. The only anesthesia used safely in small animals is isoflurane and sevoflurane. Your rat should be kept warm during surgery on a heated table or with a heated pad below her because they drop body temp very fast. Her vital signs should also be monitored the entire time she is under the anesthesia. Post op recovery should also find her being kept very warm along with monitored vitals till she is fully awake. Narcotic pain meds should be given as well as any fluids he feels necessary to keep her hydrated. She should also be kept over night for several days to be observed for any possible complications from bleeding to infection or to simply be sure she leaves her stitches alone. Thought should be put into what treatment will be should the tumor be cancerous. Did the vet by chance tell you what sort of tumor it may be? Is it red like a strawberry, hard and flat? Is it lumpy and almost have a crown to it? Crusty?  Or a typical mass?

How old is your rat?

Please let me know so I can further advise


Sandra Todd