Trueblood Rhodesian Ridgebacks

Can Dermoid Sinuses be successfully treated with surgery ?

Answer: Yes, we are aware of at least one case where a skilled veterinary surgeon was able to completely remove a Dermoid Sinus. That pups name is BUZZ. Buzz came from a “Show” breeder with “champion show lines” based in Illinois and Texas. Buzz had a Dermoid Sinus at the base of his spine near where the tail starts. His owner first noticed what he thought was an unhealed tick bite. The owner investigated the spot and also consulted some books on Ridgebacks; it was then he was able to palpitate the Dermoid Sinus tube running from the skin to the spine. After a trip to the local vet, and his consultation of the medical literature, it was determined that Buzz did have a Dermoid Sinus. That vet referred the case to Dr Mark Anderson of Saint Louis, Mo. Fortunately for Buzz and his owner; Dr Anderson was familiar with Dermoids and had treated them before. In Buzz’s case the Dermoid went from the skin on the back all the way down through the bone and into the sheath covering the spinal cord. Dr Anderson Successfully removed the Dermoid in its entirety (including where it attached to the spinal cord). Buzz has been recovering well and had five stitches to show for his surgery and some minor weakness in hindquarters. He is expected to make a full recovery. For more information return to our FAQ.



Here is a video on how to detect a Dermoid Sinus.
This is not footage of Buzz.

Photo 1 shows the resulting wound from surgery to remove Buzz's dermoid sinus. Buzz was approximately 16 weeks old at the time of surgery. The incision required five stitches.

This photo was taken about 3 weeks after the surgery. The incision healed very well; Buzz may always have scarring but he still is one lucky pup!

Buzz was also born with a short ridge - an increasingly common occurance among pups bred for the show ring.

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