Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedure for Dogs and Cats
Laparoscopic surgery, also referred to as “keyhole surgery,” is a minimally invasive scoping method of the belly and abdominal region. This procedure is most commonly performed as an alternative to traditional, more invasive abdominal surgeries in canines and felines. By using this cutting-edge approach, your pet’s doctor can explore the abdomen and abdominal organs more efficiently, and with less pain and discomfort for your furry best friend. Keep reading to learn more about this procedure, and meet with your Tiffany Springs veterinarian to discover if your pet is a candidate for laparoscopy.
Why You Ought to Consider Laparoscopic Surgery for Your Pet
- Minimally Invasive Procedure
- Decreased pain and discomfort.
- Smaller Incisions
- Reduced Tissue Damage
- Less Postoperative Pain
- Quicker Healing and Recovery Times
- Reduced Risk of Infection and Other Surgical Complications
- Ideal for Spays, Biopsies, Mass Removal, and More
Smaller Incision Site
Less Postoperative Pain
Reduced Need for Pain Medication
Quicker Recovery Time
Laparoscopic Surgery vs. Open Surgery: What’s the Difference?
Laparoscopy is an incredibly versatile procedure that can be used for exploring the abdominal cavity, and it is also beneficial for various types of surgeries. Unlike traditional open surgery procedures that are performed with a scalpel to create a single incision ranging from an inch or longer to access the abdomen, this procedure involves one or several small incisions that are a quarter inch or less. Once the very small incision has been made, your vet can insert the tubular scope equipped with fiber optics, which gives them a much more complete picture of the abdomen and other internal structures and tissues without having to completely open up the area. As a result, there is less tissue damage, which means less discomfort for your pet, and less risk of any complications following their operation.
What to Expect
Once your veterinarian has determined if your pet is a good candidate for this procedure, the patient will undergo any necessary diagnostic testing or pre-surgical procedures. Because of the nature of this procedure, prior to their surgery, your veterinarian will administer a general anesthesia. Your pet will be closely monitored to minimize any risks. Depending on the reason for your pet’s surgery, the procedure time will vary, and your doctor will go over this with you during the preoperative stage. Once the procedure is complete, your pet’s incision(s) will be sutured, and they should experience only minor discomfort with quicker healing times. To facilitate optimal healing and recovery, you will be given postoperative care instructions, pain management protocols, and more.
A Versatile Procedure
Laparoscopy is an ideal procedure for the following:
- Exploratory Surgery
- Spay Procedures (Removal of ovaries in female canines and felines)
- Abdominal Organ Biopsies
- Intestinal Biopsies
- Mass, Growth, or Tumor Removal
- Bladder Stone Removal
- Stomach-Tacking (To prevent bloat in canines)
- Scoping of a Joint (To look for torn ligaments)
Talk to Your Tiffany Springs Veterinarian Today
If you think your pet may benefit from laparoscopic surgery, contact Eagle Animal Hospital at Tiffany Springs to arrange a consultation with your trusted veterinarian. Your pet’s doctor can answer questions, walk you through the process, and determine if your furry companion is a candidate for this procedure. Reach out online, give us a call, or connect with your veterinarian instantly through Telemedicine to learn more.