Laparoscopic Procedures
We are excited to be offering laparoscopic services. This means we are using a small
camera and other medical equipment, inserted through small 1 cm incisions, to
be able to look around the abdomen and assist us with procedures such as spays,
gastropexies, and biopsy of tissues such as the liver.
Laparoscopic procedures are considered minimally invasive because of the much smaller incisions that are made therefore helping decrease healing time, decrease pain, and less importantly smaller scars.
Laparoscopic Spay
During a laparoscopic spay we use a three- port technique to be able to visualize and remove the ovaries in their entirety, ensuring the prevention of reproduction and decreasing the risk of mammary cancers. Why choose a Laparscopic Spay? Laparoscopic spays have been shown to cause 65% less pain than traditional spays. This means a faster recovery and less trauma to the patient.
There is less risk of infection with smaller surgical incisions. Activity restriction is only recommended for the first 2-3 days after a LAP spay versus 7-14 days for a traditional spay. Improved visualization and magnification increases operative precision and reduces blood loss.
Laparoscopic Gastropexy
Prophylactic gastropexy is recommended for all at-risk breeds, such as Great
Danes and Mastiffs. By performing a gastropexy, where the stomach is attached
the body wall, we are able to prevent the life threatening event called gastric
dilatation and volvulus (GDV) or bloat. Giant-breed dogs and large-breed dogs
are at a much higher risk than smaller dogs for developing GDV. Laparoscopy
allows excellent visualization of the stomach and body wall, results in a much
smaller incision and boasts very quick recovery times.
Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy is when the endoscope (camera) is used to look within the joints. This process allows for close inspection, diagnosis, as well as treatment of some joint diseases. Common findings in dogs are ligament injuries (ACL tear) and bone fragments.
Laparoscopic Liver Biopsy
Direct visualization of the liver during laparoscopy provides more
comprehensive information than ultrasound and allows us to chose an appropriate
location for sampling.
Otoscopy/Rhinoscopy
The use of a scope into the ear canal or into the nasal passages lets us dig a little deeper and give us a better chance of identifying the cause of itchy ears and chronic sneezing.
FAQ
Q: Is this the same
technology that is used in
human surgery?
A: Yes. We utilize the same
level of technology
that has become the
standard of care in
human medicine over the
past 25 years.
Q: If an
open procedure is done with a
small incision, is there a
benefit to
laparoscopy?
A: The visualization and
magnification of
laparoscopic equipment
allows a more
precise surgery with
ultimately less trauma
and pain. Reduced pain may
also require
less anesthesia during the
operation. Plus,
multiple smaller incisions
have less risk
of infection and heal more
quickly.
Q: How
long will my pet need to be confined
after laparoscopic surgery?
A: This is one of the
biggest benefits of
minimally invasive surgery!
We recommend
2-3 days of reduced
activity. However, they
will still need to avoid
baths and swimming
for 7-14 days.
Q: Is it
dangerous to only remove the
ovaries?
A: There is no real benefit
in removing the
uterus of a young, healthy
animal. Initially,
it was believed to prevent
problems later in
life. However, many papers
have since
refuted this rationale.
Malignant uterine
cancer is very uncommon in
dogs. By
simply removing the
ovaries, hormones that
may cause uterine cancers
and infections
are eliminated.
Laparoscopic procedures are considered minimally invasive because of the much
smaller incisions that are made therefore helping decrease healing time,
decrease pain, and less importantly smaller scars.