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Laparoscopy

A less invasive surgery method with a quicker recovery time.

There are numerous joys that come with being a pet owner. When someone takes a dog, cat, or other pet into their home, they are sharing their love and compassion with another creature who is totally dependent on them. They provide unconditional love and can give you a unique experience you cannot find anywhere else. Therefore, it can be stressful to know that your pet needs surgery. Laparoscopy is just one of the many types of procedures your pet may need. To learn more, please call us at 416-245-8805.

What is laparoscopic surgery?

This surgery is done with a small incision, about the size of a keyhole, in the abdomen of the pet. From there, the abdomen is inflated with gas and the veterinarian will use a scope with a camera and fiber optic light to find the area to be operated on. Some of the most common procedures performed laparoscopically include biopsies of organs, and minimally invasive spaying and neutering procedures as well as specialized surgeries to decrease the risk of GDV (gastric dilation volvulus).

What issues can be detected and fixed with laparoscopy?

There are a few reasons why the surgeon might choose to go with laparoscopic surgery. This type of surgery is usually used for operations that do not require a large incision. For example, someone might have a pet that needs his or her gall bladder removed. Sometimes, laparoscopic surgery can be used to remove the spleen as well. Whenever possible, our team will go with laparoscopic surgery as it is less invasive for the patient.

Why is spaying important?

Spaying is the process by which a female animal is sterilized, preventing her from having babies. Spaying is important not only because it prevents unwanted litters, but it helps to prevent illnesses associated with an animal's reproductive organs and can also help with the overall behaviour of your pet.

What is a Laparoscopic Spay?

When looking for a "veterinarian near me," you may want to look for doctors that offer laparoscopic spay services. This is the same as a traditional spay in terms of the end result, the process is just a bit different. Instead of making a large surgical incision,  laparoscopic surgeries are much less invasive. A very small incision is made and the procedure is done with the help of cameras and small robotic tools. These procedures are proven to be less painful,  take less time to heal, ensuring your pet gets to come home sooner. This type of spay is faster as well, and reduces the chances of infection and overall complications related to surgery.

What type of spay is right for my pet?

If you have a very young pet, a laparoscopic procedure is ideal, as it is faster and causes less downtime for your pet. It also reduces the chances of things like ripped stitches, infection, and more in the healing process. Older pets can also benefit from this type of spay, as it is less invasive and will be less stressful for your pet overall in terms of the procedure itself and the healing process.

What is a Laparoscopic Gastropexy?

Laparoscopic gastropexy is less invasive than other types of gastropexy surgeries. During the operation, our veterinarian inserts a small camera through an incision near the belly button. Using equipment, our veterinarian attaches the stomach to the body wall. While a gastropexy doesn’t prevent bloat from occurring, it prevents the stomach from being able to twist around itself. This procedure is less invasive than a traditional gastropexy, so your dog will recover more quickly.

Does your hospital treat this condition?

A laparoscopic gastropexy isn’t just for emergency surgery. Gastropexy surgery is also a preventative option for dogs that could be high-risk of GDV. Our team at Richview Animal Hospital can answer any questions you have about laparoscopic gastropexy. 

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