Abdominal surgery for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes can be performed in one of two ways- laparotomy or laparoscopy.
Laparotomy, also known as an open approach, is the traditional way to explore the abdomen by cutting through the abdominal midline to expose all structures for visualization by the naked eye and subsequent treatment if warranted.
At MVUCS, we prefer laparoscopy (over laparotomy) for some procedures. It allows for minimally invasive approaches to the abdomen with smaller incisions and specialized equipment, resulting in reduced pain, reduced bleeding, reduced infection rates, and faster recovery times. Ideal laparoscopy candidates are larger than 30lbs and in lean body condition.
As the current standard of care in many human surgeries, laparoscopic surgery begins by introducing a small scope instrument with associated video camera through small incisions to visualize abdominal structures on a magnified scale. After camera-assisted visualization, additional small incisions can be made for small instruments to assist with biopsy, tissue removal, or other procedures.
Laparoscopic procedures offered at MVUCS include laparoscopic spay, laparoscopic gastropexy, laparoscopic biopsies, and laparoscopic cryptorchid neuter.
“Spaying” female dogs and cats includes removal of the ovaries (ovariectomy) or ovaries and uterus (ovariohysterectomy). This procedure has traditionally been performed through an incision along the caudal (abdominal half closer to the tail) midline that is 2-8 inches long depending on the size of your pet. Laparoscopic ovariectomy has been shown to decrease post-operative pain, recovery time, and complication rates- particular in large breed dogs. Laparoscopic ovariohysterectomy can also be performed minimally invasively. The differences between these procedures and their advantages will be discussed during your consultation with the surgeon. While not typically performed, laparoscopic ovary-sparing spay (hysterectomy) is available. Please specify if you are interested in this procedure when scheduling your pet’s consultation.
Laparoscopic gastropexy is a prophylactic (preventative) procedure to minimize the risk of Gastric Dilatation & Volvulus, also know as GDV or commonly as “Bloat.” GDV is a condition that occurs most commonly in older large, deep-chested dogs (Great Danes, Irish Setters, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Labrador Retriever, German Shepherds, Standard Poodles etc.) GDV is a life-threatening condition as the stomach rotates on itself and cuts off blood supply as it fills with gas. Prophylactic gastropexy involves permanently tacking the stomach to the body wall in its normal anatomic position to prevent rotating on itself. An open approach gastropexy involves a long incision along the abdominal midline with full exposure of the abdominal contents. Performed via a minimally invasive approach, laparoscopic gastropexy is a faster and better tolerated potentially life-saving procedure. This surgery can be easily combined with other laparoscopic procedures such as spay or cryptorchid neuter.
Laparoscopic biopsies are most commonly performed on the liver. Laparoscopic liver biopsies provide more accurate diagnoses than fine needle aspirates given the laparoscopic ability to obtain a larger biopsy sample for histopathology, culture, etc. as indicated by your pet’s condition. A traditional open approach for liver biopsies provides similar sized biopsy samples with a longer incision, more discomfort, and higher potential for complications.
Cryptorchidism is the abnormal retention of one or both testicles within the abdomen or inguinal canal (passage between the abdomen and scrotum). In cases of abdominal cryptorchidism, the abnormally positioned testicles can be removed through an open approach or laparoscopically. Removal of these testicles is always recommended due to an increased rate of testicular cancer.
If you are interested in any of these minimally invasive laparoscopic procedures, call to schedule an appointment today!