The Gentle Spay : Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to perform surgical procedures on internal structures of the body. A laparoscope with digital camera is inserted through a trocar port via a small incision into the body wall. It magnifies internal structures on television monitors for more direct viewing. Additional access ports are inserted to facilitate the use of surgical specialized instruments. In the past, the most common application of laparoscopy was to perform a biopsy of internal organs. With advancements in equipment and techniques, laparoscopy can now be used for Ovariectomy, Ovariohysterectomy, Cryptorchid, Exploratory, Gastropexy, Feed tube placement, Cystotomy for calculi removal and chest procedures. Laparoscopic surgical procedures are considerably less painful postoperatively and speeds recovery following surgery. Most are outpatient procedures, with minimal exercise restriction needed post operatively during the healing phase. Post-op pain medication is often not necessary.

Get more information and view an actual laparoscopic procedure by clicking the video button

Surgeons performing laparoscopic procedures have received extensive training in this field and to date very few pet hospitals offer these advanced techniques. Ovariectomy is the world standard of care for female sterilization. Removal of the uterus is not necessary and adds more surgical risk to patients. Dr. Muise has been performing laparoscopic procedures since 1992 and routinely performs exploratory, ovariectomy, gastropexy, cystoscopy.

See a video of an actual laparoscopic spay procedure by clicking the camera icon below.

Caution! This video contains graphic depictions of an actual surgical procedure and may be disturbing to some viewers.