Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive technique for viewing the internal structures of the abdomen and thorax. A Laparoscope (camera) inserted through a small incision in the body wall allowing a magnified view of the internal structures of the thorax and/or abdomen on a TV monitor for further diagnosis or treatment.
Additional small incisions are made to facilitate the use of surgical instruments. The most common application of Laparoscopy has been adopted as a less traumatic and less painful alternative to traditional neutering.
Advantages of Laparoscopic Spays over Traditional Surgery
- A recent study concluded Laparoscopic spays caused less surgical stress and up to 65% less post-operative pain than a traditional open surgical spay
- The entire surgery is performed through a few tiny incisions rather than a larger abdominal opening. Smaller incisions are less painful and reduce recovery time
- Laparoscopy allows for better visualisation of abdominal organs
- Controlled incisions eliminate pain and bruising caused by the tearing of tissue associated with traditional spays
- No external sutures which reduce the need of a Buster Collar
- In larger breed dogs gastropexy can be performed at the time of spay
Traditional Spays
In a traditional spay a 2” to 3” or larger incision is made in the abdomen through which the ovarian ligament is blindly torn from the abdominal wall. This tearing may cause bruising and postoperative pain. Traditional spays require significant tension on the ovaries and uterus which may cause trauma and bleeding.
Laparoscopic Spays
When performing a laparoscopic spay, the procedure is done through two or three tiny incisions in the abdomen, typically 3/16’ in size. The procedure is performed with magnified views of the organs allowing for greater precision.
The ovarian ligament is carefully cut and cauterized, rather than torn. Laparoscopic spays offer patients up to 65% less pain, minimal recovery time and less trauma than traditional spays.