Articles

Veterinary Equipment in an Oncology Environment

by Marta Jordan Writer
Cancer is, unfortunately, a leading cause of death in animals, particularly domestic pets. Cancer affects all types of animals, from mammals to reptiles. There are many studies and statistics out there that suggest cats and dogs are particularly susceptible to developing cancer, especially as they progress past the age of ten years.

As is the case with humans, exposure to known carcinogens can cause the growth of cancer in animals. This includes smoke, sunlight, and chemicals. Cancer in animals has also been linked to poor lifestyle habits, including obesity and a lack of exercise.

In addition, there are certain cancers that can actually be transmitted between animals. These are exceedingly rare (not as rare as human-to-human transmission of cancer) and most commonly occurs either through pregnancy or contaminated waste.

Cancer in animals comes with a variety of symptoms, including unexplained growths, unexplained weight loss, abnormal bleeding, unexplained vomiting and diarrhea, coughing, change in eating patterns, and bad breath.

If you notice any of the above symptoms in your pet, you should contact a clinician immediately. They will use a variety of different types of veterinary equipment to diagnose and treat the cancer.

What type of Veterinary Equipment is used to Treat Cancer in Animals?

There are a range of options for treating cancer in animals, just as is the case with humans. The chosen method will depend on the age of the animal, pre-existing medical conditions, how advanced the cancer is, and where it is located.

Common treatment options include:

Surgery

Usually used to treat localised cancers that are easily accessible. Can also be used as a first step before chemotherapy and radiation to ensure these treatments are more successful. 

Chemotherapy

Involves the use of drugs that kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy is usually required in cases where the cancer is widespread. Side effects include nausea, lowered immunity, and internal bleeding.

Radiotherapy

High-energy radiation is focused directly onto cancer cells to kill them. Radiotherapy is often used in combination with surgery and chemotherapy. The location of a cancer can sometimes make this form of treatment impossible.

Hyperthermia

A less common form of treatment, hyperthermia involves the use of heat probes to destroy cancer cells.

Regardless of the type of treatment, veterinarians rely upon a wide variety of equipment to effectively care for their animal patients. 

For example, in the case of chemotherapy, closed system transfer devices are required to ensure that both staff and animal patients are protected from hazardous drug leaks, sprays, and aerosols that can occur through drug preparation, administration, and disposal. 

Tips for Purchasing Oncology Equipment

If you manage a veterinary facility and are looking to purchase oncology equipment, there are several factors that you should keep in mind:

Does my Supplier offer Servicing?

This is an important question. Medical equipment, like all types of equipment, is prone to breakdowns. Partnering with a supplier that offers servicing for the full lifecycle of an asset can give you peace of mind that you are able to provide your patients with quality care.

Are Parts Readily Available?

If your equipment breaks down, you want to be able to immediately access replacement parts. Otherwise, wait times can quickly blow out, affecting the quality of care you are able to provide your patients with.

What is the Total Price?

The total price of equipment not only includes the purchase price, but long-term maintenance and part replacement costs. While you might be able to afford a particular type of veterinary equipment in the short term, it’s a good idea to run a few calculations so you are not left significantly out of pocket down the line.


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About Marta Jordan Advanced   Writer

101 connections, 1 recommendations, 309 honor points.
Joined APSense since, September 24th, 2020, From Melbourne, Australia.

Created on Jul 13th 2021 23:59. Viewed 389 times.

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