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TECABO

Aproximate Cost:
$1,500 - $2,000

What It Is
A total ear canal ablation with bulla osteotomy (TECA-BO) is a surgical procedure to remove the entire ear canal and clean out the middle ear cavity (bulla). The surgeon removes all diseased ear canal tissue and then opens the bulla to remove infected tissue or debris. This eliminates the source of chronic ear infections and pain.


Why It’s Performed
This surgery is performed in dogs and cats with severe, end-stage ear disease that no longer responds to medical treatment. Chronic ear infections can cause scarring, nerve damage, and constant pain. TECA-BO removes the diseased tissue entirely, relieving pain and eliminating the source of recurrent infections.


Risks Involved
Potential complications include infection, bleeding, wound breakdown, facial nerve paralysis (usually temporary), and hearing loss in the affected ear (which is usually already nonfunctional before surgery). Uncommonly incomplete removal results in a chronic draining tract. While serious complications are uncommon, this is a major surgery and requires careful intraoperative precision.


Typical Recovery Time
Most pets temporarily lose the ability to blink due to nerve irritation, but will recover in 1-2 weeks. Eye drops will be recommended during this time to prevent dry eye. A safety cone is used to prevent rubbing or scratching. Stitches are removed or dissolve on their own in about two weeks, and pets are noticeably more comfortable once healed.


Our Approach
At Howard County Animal Hospital in Ellicott City, MD, we perform TECA-BO surgeries with precision and care. Our goal is to make high-quality surgical care accessible and affordable for local pet owners, and we provide clear, upfront estimates so families can plan for the cost of treatment.

*Requires Consult. 

*Only 1 ear at a time.

We are committed to offering affordable surgery options with transparent pricing. The cost shown are general estimates only, and a personalized estimate will be provided after your consultation.

 

We accept all major credit cards, Zelle, and cash. For clients interested in payment plans, we also work with CareCredit.

What’s Included in Our Surgical Costs

Our surgical prices are designed to be as transparent as possible and include:

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  • All charges typically associated with the day of the procedure

  • Preoperative exam the day of the procedure

  • Anesthesia and monitoring required throughout the procedure

  • All perioperative injectable medications administered before, during and after the procedure to keep your pet safe and comfortable

  • IV catheter and fluids to maintain vascular support during your pet’s surgery and recovery

  • Detailed discharge instructions for at-home aftercare

What’s NOT Included in Our Surgical Costs

The following items are not included in the surgical costs and may be recommended or required depending on your pet’s individual needs:

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  • Pre-operative diagnostic workups to determine the underlying problem (e.g., bloodwork, radiographs, ultrasound)

    • All diagnostics associated with your pet's procedure would be included (e.g. orthopedic surgery requiring post-operative radiographs, cystotomy with stone analysis)​.

  • Pre-anesthetic blood work

    • Optional for healthy pets under 3 years old for routine procedures, but recommended to help ensure the safety of anesthesia.

  • Radiographs (X-rays) associated with diagnosing or planning the procedure

  • Medications to take home (such as pain meds, antibiotics, sedatives or safety collars).​

  • If needed: Continued care at a local ER for monitoring and stability, recommended for unstable and sick patients.

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We will discuss all recommended or required services with you in advance so you have a complete understanding of your pet’s surgical plan and costs.

© 2025 by Howard County Animal Hospital

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