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Spayed… But Something Was Left Behind!

Spaying is an important preventive procedure, but complete removal of the intended reproductive tissues is essential.

This dog was brought to AVCI after a previous incomplete spay in which the ovaries had reportedly been removed, but substantial portions of the uterine horns remained inside the abdomen. The retained uterine tissue later became enlarged, inflamed, and filled with purulent material—a condition consistent with stump pyometra.

Stump pyometra is an infection of residual uterine tissue following a previous reproductive surgery. It may develop when a portion of the uterus remains and becomes infected. In some cases, persistent hormonal stimulation from retained ovarian tissue may also contribute, so careful abdominal exploration is important.

This condition can lead to:

• Progressive uterine infection and pus accumulation
• Abdominal pain and inflammation
• Vaginal discharge in open-cervix cases
• Fever, weakness, vomiting, or reduced appetite
• Systemic bacterial infection and sepsis if treatment is delayed

Because the remaining uterine tissue was severely infected, definitive surgical treatment was required. AVCI performed abdominal exploration and complete removal of the retained uterine horns and abnormal reproductive tissue under gas anesthesia.

Management included:

• Preoperative diagnostic assessment and stabilization
• Careful isolation and removal of the infected tissue
• Prevention of abdominal contamination during surgery
• Anesthetic and intraoperative monitoring
• Pain management, antimicrobial therapy, and postoperative observation

The surgery was completed successfully, and the patient recovered well.

This case highlights that spaying is more than preventing pregnancy. When properly performed, complete ovariohysterectomy removes both ovaries and the uterine horns, preventing future ovarian hormonal activity and eliminating the remaining uterus as a potential site of pyometra.

For pet owners, it is reasonable to ask what procedure will be performed and whether both ovaries and the uterine horns will be completely removed. Proper surgical technique, complete tissue removal, and appropriate follow-up all contribute to a safer long-term outcome.

Case handled by Dr. Mon Constancio J. Gabutan.