Laparoscopic Spay

What is a Laparoscopy?

Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive technique for viewing the internal structures of the abdomen. A laparoscope (camera) inserted through a small incision in the abdomen magnifies internal structures of the abdomen on a TV monitor for a more thorough examination. Additional small incisions are made to facilitate the use of surgical instruments. The most common application of the laparoscopy is biopsy. In recent years, laparscopy has been adopted as a less traumatic and less painful alternative to traditional spays.

Traditions 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 post-operative pain. Traditional spays require significant tension on the ovaries and uterus which may cause trauma and bleeding. Traditional spays are typically performed as in-patient surgeries which require an overnight stay.

Laparoscopic Spays

When preforming 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. Laparoscpoic spays offer patients up to 65% less pain, minimal recovery time and less trauma than traditional spays.

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 surgery.
  
• 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.


• Usually performed as an outpatient procedure so your pet recovers at home. Traditional open spays typically require an overnight stay.


• Laparoscopy allows for better visualization of abdominal organs.


• Controlled incisions eliminate pain and bruising caused by the tearing of the tissue associated with traditional spays.


• In larger breed dogs gastropexy can be performed at the time of spay.