Vetinerary Assistant Practice Exam

An ovariohysterectomy is defined as the surgical removal of both the ovaries and the uterus. This procedure is commonly performed in female animals as a means of sterilization, to prevent unwanted pregnancies, and to reduce the risk of certain health issues such as pyometra and ovarian cancer. The operation typically involves an incision in the abdomen, allowing the surgeon to access and remove these reproductive organs.

Understanding this term is particularly important for veterinary assistants as it relates directly to surgical procedures they may observe or assist with, as well as providing appropriate post-operative care and education to pet owners regarding the implications of the procedure for their animals’ health and behavior. It is essential to recognize that this procedure is distinct from other surgical operations like exploratory surgeries, directional movements, or bladder interventions, which do not pertain to the removal of reproductive organs.