Laparoscopic Surgery

In comparison to traditional surgery, laparoscopic surgery for pets is a minimally invasive alternative and typically results in a shorter recovery time. Similar to arthroscopic surgery, your veterinarian will make one or two small openings in the pet’s abdomen and insert both a camera and the surgical tools required to complete the procedure. This allows our veterinarians to visualize the organs and the abdominal cavity through what is called a “keyhole”, perform the operation and exit the body without creating incisions that are any larger than absolutely necessary.

This type of surgery is typically used for spaying cats and dogs, or to perform a biopsy of the liver or intestines. Should your veterinarian need to take several samples, laparoscopic surgery is the safest and the least invasive way to collect samples for a diagnosis. Laparoscopic surgery is also used to view the abdominal cavity for any abnormalities. Since it is minimally invasive, cats will typically experience less pain and a quicker healing time.

Benefits of Laparoscopic Surgery

There are benefits to using laparoscopic surgery whenever it is possible, such as:

• Smaller incision
• Less invasive
• Quicker recovery
• Shorter procedure time

Types of Surgeries Where Laparoscopy Is Used

Laparoscopy is commonly used in our veterinary practice for spaying cats and dogs and taking ovarian biopsies. Laparoscopy can also be used for other types of biopsies such as:

• Liver biopsy
• Tumor biopsy
• Intestinal biopsy
• Kidney biopsy

Preparing Your Pet for A Laparoscopy

In order to prepare your pet for a laparoscopy, you should follow your veterinarian’s instructions.

• Fasting your pet the night before is typically recommended
• Allow your pet to drink water to stay hydrated until the morning of the surgery
• Arrive on time for the surgery and be sure to address any questions or concerns you may have.

What Happens When The Procedure Is Over?

Typically, your pet will recover from the anesthesia in your veterinarian’s recovery area. You will then be given a set of instructions for your pet’s care and be sent home with your cat to rest and recover.

Caring For Your Pet At Home After Laparoscopic Surgery

Follow the instructions that your veterinarian gives you. Home care instructions will vary depending upon what type of surgery has been performed. Generally, your pet should recover in 12-24 hours after the
laparoscopy surgery. If your pet shows any signs of distress, call us immediately at Vida Veterinary Care, and we will give you instructions on how to handle this situation.

Don’t encourage any strenuous activity for a couple of days. Keep your pet quiet, monitor their activity, and keep them indoors for a few days. Each and every patient is different and is dealing with a different recovery based on the procedure, so we strongly recommend that you follow the personalized instructions our veterinarian provides for your pet.

Contact Us About Laparoscopic Surgery For Your Dog or Cat

If you are looking into less invasive surgical options for your dog or cat, please call us at Vida Veterinary Care – Denver and talk to a veterinarian about the benefits of laparoscopic surgery.

You can call our Denver office at 303-757-5638 for more information or for a consultation for your cat.