Laparoscopic spays

Keyhole surgery

We are very proud to be able to offer keyhole surgery!

Keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery is a minimally invasive surgery that involves passing a camera and specialised instruments through small (0.5-1cm) incisions in the body wall to perform surgical procedures.

You may be aware of the many reported advantages of keyhole surgery for people and we believe the same is true for pets.

What are the reported advantages of keyhole surgery in pets?

Reduced post-operative pain compared to traditional abdominal surgery.
Smaller incisions.
Faster healing time.
Fewer post-operative complications.
Rest is usually only required for two to three days after the procedure.
Clearer view of the surgical site for the surgeon.

There are many surgical and diagnostic procedures we can perform using our specialised equipment and trained colleagues. The most common is keyhole spaying (laparoscopic ovariectomy).

How does keyhole spaying work?

A keyhole spay is performed through two small incisions. The incisions measure between 0.5 and1cm, compared to one larger incision of 2-4cm in cats and 5-15cm in dogs.

One incision is for the camera, which displays a magnified view of the surgical site on a monitor. This allows a clear picture for the veterinary surgeon. The second incision is for instruments which are used to remove the ovaries.

FAQs

Will my pet be sore after the procedure?

In a conventional spay the ligaments connecting the ovaries to the body wall are stretched and then snapped, which causes pain. With a keyhole spay, these ligaments are cauterised and then sharply cut, which is reported to be significantly less painful.

For a conventional spay pets need to rest for 10 to 14 days, with keyhole procedures the usual rest time is just 2 to 3 days, so long as the recovery goes as planned.

Is it safe to leave the uterus behind?

Conditions of the uterus like pyometra can only occur if the hormones produced by the ovaries are present. The ovaries are removed in their entirety during a keyhole spay procedure so pyometra cannot develop.

If a uterus looks abnormal before the keyhole procedure, you will be contacted and alternatives will be discussed with you.

What is the difference between ovariectomy and ovariohysterectomy long-term?

The effect of both surgeries is the same. Spayed females will not have seasons, cannot become pregnant and will not develop false pregnancies. Spayed animals cannot develop life-threatening uterine infections (pyometra) or ovarian tumours.

In addition, spaying a female dog before her third season has been proven to reduce the risk of developing mammary cancers later in life.

Other procedures

Keyhole surgery can benefit many other patients, and enables us to provide minimally invasive options for surgeries such as:
– Removing retained testicles.
– Liver biopsies.

Keyhole surgery requires expert training for our team, and investment in and maintenance of the equipment. There is, therefore, an additional cost associated with most keyhole surgery compared to open surgery.

To book an appointment or learn more about whether a keyhole procedure could be suitable for your pet, please contact the practice.

Laparoscopic spays

FAQs

Will my pet be sore after the procedure?

How much hair is clipped?

Will a buster collar be required?

How long is the rest period?

Will pain relief be required at home?

Is it safe to leave the uterus behind?