Library

Surgical Conditions

  • Osteochondritis dissecans is an inflammatory condition that occurs when diseased cartilage separates from the underlying bone. It most commonly affects the shoulder joint but the elbow, hip, or knee (stifle) may also be involved. This is a developmental disease that occurs in rapidly growing large breed dogs typically between 6 and 9 months of age and tends to occur more often in male dogs. Dogs that are affected with OCD typically limp or are lame in the affected leg or legs. Several radiographs of each affected leg are necessary to get an accurate assessment of various bones and joints. Treatment may involve conservative medical management or surgical intervention.

  • Rarely, ovarian tissue can be left behind when a cat is spayed. This leads to the ongoing secretion of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone that can result in a cat continuing to have a heat cycle. Ovarian remnants are difficult to diagnose but vaginal cytology, combined with hormone testing, can be used to confirm the presence of functional ovarian tissue. Surgical treatment is typically recommended to prevent other health conditions from developing.

  • Rarely, ovarian tissue can be left behind when a dog is spayed. This leads to the ongoing secretion of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone that can result in a dog continuing to have a heat cycle. Ovarian remnants are difficult to diagnose, but vaginal cytology combined with hormone testing can be used to confirm the presence of functional ovarian tissue. Surgical treatment is typically recommended to prevent other health conditions from developing.

  • Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a heart defect that occurs when the ductus arteriosus (an opening between the aorta and the pulmonary artery) fails to close at birth. A PDA is usually diagnosed when your veterinarian hears a continuous heart murmur during a routine physical examination of your puppy. This article explains PDA and discusses signs, treatment, and prognosis for this condition.

  • Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a heart defect that occurs when the ductus arteriosus (an opening between the aorta and the pulmonary artery) fails to close at birth. A PDA is usually diagnosed when your veterinarian hears a continuous heart murmur during a routine physical examination of your puppy. This article explains PDA and discusses signs, treatment, and prognosis for this condition.

  • Penetrating wounds can look minor on the surface but may cause severe injury below the skin. A thorough assessment requires sedation or anesthesia and surgery may be required to address the extent of the injury. This handout outlines first aid steps a pet owner can take while transporting their injured pet to the veterinary hospital.

  • A Penrose drain is a latex tube placed into a wound with one or two ends exiting the skin to passively remove unwanted fluid, usually from abscesses or open wounds. This handout provides post-operative wound care instructions for cats sent home with a Penrose drain.

  • A Penrose drain is a latex tube placed into a wound with one or two ends exiting the skin to passively remove unwanted fluid, usually from abscesses or open wounds. This handout provides post-operative wound care instructions for dogs sent home with a Penrose drain.

  • Perianal fistula, also known as anal furunculosis, is a serious medical condition that most commonly affects German shepherd dogs. Perianal fistulas are characterized by chronic, purulent, smelly, ulcerating, draining tracts in the anal region and surrounding skin. More recent studies indicate that the condition is more likely caused by an autoimmune disease.

  • A perineal hernia is a protrusion of tissue through the muscle of the perineum. Potential causes, clinical signs, and treatment are explained. The prognosis ranges from good to poor, depending on the ability to perform surgery and the pet's response to surgery. Perineal hernias have the potential to be life-threatening.

Our Team

Our veterinarians are dedicated to providing the best possible healthcare by getting to know you and your pet.

Meet the Veterinarians & Team of Ponce De Leon Animal Clinic in Coral Gables! We’re pleased to provide exceptional vet care for your pets!

Please call us at 305-666-6813 to speak to one of our caring veterinary staff members!



Meet Our Team


About Us

When you visit, we are certain that you will feel the sense of genuine concern that we have for your pet. We are compassionate and effective in our practice.

We also have the latest equipment and a high-tech facility. With a full selection of veterinarian services, our staff is dedicated to your furry pal’s total health.

Call us today at to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.



Learn More About Us


Helpful Resources

We at Ponce De Leon Animal Clinic love animals. We are not only dedicated to the veterinarian profession but also to education and awareness. Here are a few online resources for your review!

If your furry companion needs veterinarian care, call us today at 305-666-68133 to learn more about our services.

Also you can schedule an appointment. We're prepared to handle your pet’s needs.



View Resources