ABSTRACT
For bulla osteotomy the cat is placed in dorsal recumbency with the neck elevated. The bulla is palpated caudal and slightly medial to the vertical ramus of the mandible. A paramedian skin incision is made over the bulla. By separating the digastric muscle from the hyoglossal and styloglossal muscles, the ventral bulla is visualized. The hypoglossal nerve must be avoided. A Steinman pin is inserted into the bulla and the opening enlarged using rongeurs. The cat bulla is divided by a septum that must be opened for complete drainage and curettage. The polyp is excised at its base. Lavage is performed and a drain placed prior to closure. Prognosis is excellent long term, but recurrence is likely if the entire polyp is not removed.
