Periodic lancing or draining of the mucocele in dogs is usually a procedure that can be performed the same day the mucocele is discovered. Prior to lancing or draining the mucocele, a veterinarian will need to do an examination.
In addition to lancing or draining the mucocele, veterinarians may also recommend other tests. These tests may vary from blood work to a detailed cytology.
Prior to the lancing or draining of the mucocele the area must be clipped. Once free of hair, the area is cleaned with an aseptic solution.
After the area is clipped and cleaned, the veterinarian may administer the dog a local anesthesia. Local anesthesia doesn’t put the dog all the way to sleep like IV anesthesia would. Instead, local anesthesia is only administered and effective in a specific region of the body. This will ensure that the procedure is as painless as possible.
Once the local anesthesia begins working, the veterinarian will make a small incision in the mucocele with a tool known as a “lancet”. A lancet is very small surgical blade. Lancets are two sided and have an extremely sharp point.
The mucocele will probably start draining as soon as the incision is made with the lancet. During the procedure, the veterinarian may poke and prod at the area to ensure that all possible saliva is drained from the mucocele.
During the lancing and drainage, veterinarians will continually wash the area with an aseptic to help ensure that the area stays clear of any debris or fluid leaving the mucocele.
After the mucocele finishes draining, the area is cleaned again with an aseptic.
Periodic lancing or drainage of the mucocele in dogs may be performed on the dog’s impacted glands as often as every couple of weeks. In some cases, periodic lancing or draining of the mucocele in dogs only needs to be repeated every few months.