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 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.