Veterinary Laparoscopy: Keyhole Surgery for Dogs & Cats

In line with Sploot’s commitment to constant innovation and next-level veterinary care, we are pleased to offer veterinary laparoscopy, aided by LigaSure, in select vet clinics.

Veterinary laparoscopic surgery, or keyhole surgery for dogs and cats, is a minimally invasive, state-of-the-art surgical procedure. Paired with LigaSure, laparoscopy at Sploot offers enhanced precision and faster recovery times, among many other benefits.

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Open 8am-8pm, 365 days a year... same day appointments and urgent drop-offs welcome!
Primary and urgent care, under one roof.
Easily book online or text us.
Modern, warm clinics with unlimited free treats.

What is Veterinary Laparoscopy?

Veterinary laparoscopy, commonly referred to as keyhole surgery for dogs and cats, is a state-of-the-art surgical technique used in veterinary medicine. 

This method involves making small incisions (i.e. keyholes) through which specialized instruments and a camera are inserted to perform surgery. The camera provides a magnified view of the internal organs, allowing for precise and controlled procedures.

Veterinary laparoscopy is less invasive than standard surgery. It minimizes bleeding, the risk of infections, post-surgical pain, and recovery times after vet surgery.

What is LigaSure?

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LigaSure is an advanced surgical tool that revolutionizes veterinary surgery and  takes the place of older methods of sealing blood vessels during surgery (i.e. surgical clips and sutures). 
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LigaSure efficiently seals blood vessels using the body’s own elastin and collagen.This technology ensures minimal bleeding and reduced risk of complications during surgery.
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When used in conjunction with veterinary laparoscopy, LigaSure significantly improves outcomes, making the surgery even safer.

Benefits of Veterinary Laparoscopy (with Ligasure)

Veterinary laparoscopy with LigaSure offers plenty of combined benefits, including the following:

1. Faster Recovery Times

Pets undergoing keyhole surgery with LigaSure typically experience quicker recovery periods, allowing them to return to their normal activities sooner. 

2. Minimized Pain & Discomfort

The combination of laparoscopy and LigaSure results in less tissue trauma and reduced postoperative pain for pets, enhancing their overall comfort during recovery.

3.  Reduced Risk of Complications

Keyhole surgery for dogs and cats are done through small incisions, leaving more areas of the skin barrier intact. This minimizes the risk of infection
In addition, LigaSure's reliable sealing of blood vessels minimizes the risk of post-operative bleeding.

4. Reduced Time Under Anesthesia

The enhanced efficiency and precision of vet laparoscopy (with LigaSure) can reduce the time needed for the operation. Depending on the case, this can mean a reduced amount of time using anesthesia.

Types of Keyhole Surgeries for Dogs & Cats (Offered By Sploot Vets)

Veterinary laparoscopy can be used for a variety of surgical procedures, such as the following: 

Laparoscopic Spaying

Spaying is a veterinary surgery performed on female dogs and cats aimed to  remove reproductive capabilities and the chances of accidental breeding. This procedure also offers plenty of behavioral and health benefits, including the prevention of mammary cancer, uterine infections, and mating-related behaviors like running away to seek a mate.
Laparoscopic spaying is the minimally invasive counterpart of traditional spaying —  with a smaller incision required. Unlike traditional spaying wherein the ovaries and uterus are removed, laparoscopic spaying only involves the removal of the ovaries.

Cryptorchid Neutering

Neutering is a veterinary surgery for male cats and dogs that aims to remove the testicles and the risk of accidental breeding. Neutering also gives behavioral and health benefits, including the prevention of testicular cancer, prostate problems, and mating related aggression and wandering.
Cryptorchid neutering is specifically for dogs with cryptorchidism, a condition wherein one or both testicles failed to descend and, thus, stay in the abdomen. Cryptorchid neutering can be done laparoscopically so that only a small incision is made to remove the testicles from the abdomen with precision.

Liver Biopsies

Liver biopsies for pets are diagnostic procedures used to collect tissue samples from the liver for microscopic examination. Liver biopsies are typically used by veterinarians to diagnose liver diseases like hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. 
Liver biopsies may be done laparoscopically to ensure the incision is minimal and to reduce the trauma to surrounding tissues.

Laparoscopic Gastropexy (GDV Prevention)

Gastropexy is a preventive veterinary surgery that is typically recommended for deep-chested pet breeds that are at risk of developing GDV (gastric dilation and volvulus), a potentially fatal medical issue that involves the twisting of the stomach.
Laparoscopic gastropexy uses small incisions and fine tools to permanently fix the stomach to the abdominal wall, thus preventing the onset or recurrence of GDV. Like all laparoscopic versions of veterinary surgical procedures, laparoscopic gastropexy offers minimized pain, faster recovery times, and more.

Veterinary Laparoscopy vs Endoscopy

Veterinary laparoscopy and endoscopy are both minimally invasive procedures with slight differences. 

Pet laparoscopy, or keyhole surgery for dogs and cats, involves inserting a small camera into the abdomen through a small incision, while veterinary endoscopy involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera through the mouth, rectum,nose, or ear. Both techniques offer advantages such as reduced recovery time and less postoperative discomfort. 

Unlike veterinary laparoscopy, endoscopy is typically used for mass removal, foreign body removal, and biopsies in the GI tract, nose, and ears.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How does laparoscopic surgery differ from traditional open surgery for dogs and cats? 

Laparoscopic surgery involves making small incisions in the abdomen and using a camera and specialized instruments to perform the procedure, whereas traditional open surgery requires a larger incision to access the surgical site directly.

What types of procedures can be performed using laparoscopic techniques? 

Laparoscopic surgical techniques can be used for various veterinary procedures, including spaying, neutering, liver biopsies, and gastropexy.

Is laparoscopic surgery safe for pets? 

Though laparoscopic surgery is the safer, less invasive surgical technique, it still carries risks of complications like any kind of surgery. However, the experienced veterinary team at Sploot takes all necessary precautions to minimize risks.

What are the potential risks or complications associated with laparoscopic surgery? 

Laparoscopic surgery is generally safe for pets when performed by a qualified veterinarian. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks, including infection, bleeding, and complications associated with anesthesia.

How do I prepare my pet for veterinary laparoscopic surgery?

Here are some general tips to prepare your pet for laparoscopic surgery:

  1. Do not feed your pet after the time specified by the vet the night before surgery. Water is allowed at all times.
  2. Set up a safe, quiet space for your pet to recover after surgery. Consider using baby gates or pens, blocking off staircases, and keeping your pet separate from other animals.
  3. Follow any additional instructions provided by Sploot’s veterinarians.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact our team!

How long does it typically take for a pet to recover from laparoscopic surgery? 

The recovery time for pets undergoing laparoscopic surgery is typically shorter compared to traditional open surgery. However, the exact recovery period can vary depending on the specific procedure performed and the individual pet's health status.

Are there any specific post-operative care instructions I need to follow after my pet undergoes laparoscopic surgery? 

Specific post-operative care instructions may vary depending on the procedure performed and the veterinarian's recommendations. 

Generally, we advise pet owners to:

  • Monitor their dog or cat closely for signs of complications;
  • Administer prescribed medications;
  • Restrict activity as needed; and
  • Follow any dietary restrictions provided by our veterinarians.

If you have any questions about post-operative care after keyhole surgery for dogs and cats, make sure to reach out to our team.

How much does my laparoscopic surgery for dogs and cats cost?

The cost varies depending on the procedure. We offer transparent pricing, and our veterinarian will provide detailed cost expectations during the pre-surgical appointment.

What payment options are available in Sploot Vets?

For convenience and safety, we accept cashless payments via major credit/debit cards, CareCredit, and ScratchPay.

Does Sploot Veterinary Care accept pet insurance?

Pet parents can receive reimbursement from their insurance provider. Coverage varies, so please contact your provider to confirm that your pet’s veterinary laparoscopy can be covered in your plan.

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