Vertical Ear Canal Ablation (VECA-Surgery) in Dogs & Cats

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Vertical Ear Canal Ablation (VECA) in Dogs and Cats

At Canton Animal Hospital, we offer Vertical Ear Canal Ablation (VECA) as a focused surgical treatment for pets suffering from disease limited to the vertical ear canal. While most cases of chronic otitis eventually involve the entire ear canal system, there are situations where the horizontal canal remains functional and the disease is confined to the vertical canal. In these specific cases, vertical canal ablation provides a less invasive yet effective alternative to more aggressive procedures like Total Ear Canal Ablation (TECA).

This surgery completely removes the vertical portion of the ear canal, allowing the horizontal canal to remain intact for drainage and ventilation—two key factors in long-term ear health. The result is a balance between effective treatment and preservation of function and appearance.

Indications for Vertical Ear Canal Ablation

This procedure is appropriate in select cases where the vertical canal is:

Affected by irreversible hyperplastic otitis
Subject to localized neoplasia (tumors) limited to the vertical canal
Severely damaged due to trauma

It is not typically recommended if the horizontal canal is also diseased, in which case a TECA-BO procedure may be more appropriate.

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Dogs ear anatomy and internal structures

Educational model showing the external, middle, and inner ear anatomy in dogs—used to explain ear disease and TECA-BO surgical changes. — Dogs ear anatomy and internal structures

Advantages Over Lateral Wall Resection

Vertical ear canal ablation (VECA) offers several benefits compared to lateral wall resection:

Complete removal of diseased vertical canal tissue
Less postoperative pain and drainage
Improved healing due to reduced cartilage incision
Better cosmetic outcomes
Retains function of the horizontal canal for continued drainage and hearing

This procedure combines the ventilation and functional benefits of lateral wall resection with the definitive resolution of total ear canal ablation—making it ideal in localized cases.

Model Diagram of Vertical Ear Canal Ablation in a Dog

Illustration of vertical ear canal ablation showing complete removal of the vertical canal while preserving horizontal canal and ear flap. — Model Diagram of Vertical Ear Canal Ablation in a Dog

Surgical Overview

Vertical ear canal ablation is performed under sterile conditions with your pet under general anesthesia. The procedure includes the following steps:

General anesthesia is administered using a combination of sedatives, intravenous anesthetics, and inhaled gas to ensure complete comfort, unconsciousness, and safety throughout the procedure.
The vertical ear canal is completely excised, including all diseased or thickened tissue. Special care is taken to preserve the horizontal canal and surrounding structures.
Any excess or reactive tissue is carefully removed to minimize inflammation and future complications.
The remaining ear opening is reshaped, allowing continued drainage and ventilation through the horizontal canal.
The surgical site is sutured with absorbable or non-absorbable sutures depending on the case, and a protective dressing or bandage may be applied.
An Elizabethan collar (E-collar) is used post-operatively to protect the area from scratching or rubbing.

This surgery typically takes less time and has a smoother recovery than full ear canal ablation procedures. Pets often experience rapid relief from clinical signs and discomfort.

Postoperative Care

Topical antibiotic-steroid medications may be prescribed
Ears are often taped over the head to protect the surgical site
An E-collar is required to prevent self-trauma
Sutures are removed after 14 days
Follow-up visits ensure proper healing and monitor for signs of infection

Risks and Complications

While complications are uncommon, they may include:

Mild postoperative swelling or discharge
Infection at the surgical site
Scar tissue development
Cosmetic changes to ear carriage (usually minimal)

Importantly, vertical canal ablation has fewer complications than lateral wall resection and offers excellent outcomes in carefully selected cases.

Schedule a Surgical Evaluation

If your dog or cat suffers from localized vertical canal disease, Canton Animal Hospital can help determine if vertical ear canal ablation is the right treatment. We’ll perform a full evaluation and help you decide on the best course of action for your pet.

📞 Call us today or Book a Consultation Online to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Wondering what to expect before or after vertical ear canal ablation surgery? Here are some common questions pet owners ask: