Laparoscopic (key-hole) Surgery

This procedure covers a wide variety of techniques which allow surgery to be performed with the minimal amount of trauma. We currently offer the following laparoscopic procedures:

• Spay
• Cryptochid (retained testicle) surgery
• Certain abdominal biopsies e.g liver.

Traditionally, neutering a female dog has been performed by opening the abdomen to remove the ovaries and uterus (womb). At Hayle Vets we are now able to offer neutering using a minimally invasive procedure call Laparoscopy, more commonly referred to as key-hole surgery.

The procedure involves two small skin incisions into the abdomen for the ports, through which the camera and instruments are passed into the abdomen. The ovaries are removed and the uterus is left in place, also known as an ovariectomy.

The advice on the timing of neutering can vary from breed to breed, this can be discussed with the vet from an early age so you as an owner can be well informed with all the pros and cons relating to ovariectomy.   

As with all spays, we advise the procedure can be carried out from when your dog is at least six months of age or three months after a season. Due to the limitation of our equipment the bitch must be at least eight kilograms in weight.

Advantages:

• Much quicker recovery. Your pet should be back to normal within 24 hours of surgery
• Smaller surgical wounds
• Quicker return to full activity, usually only a few days rest is needed
• Reduced pain from surgical wounds and internal meaning your pet is more comfortable in the days following the procedure
• Reduced scar tissue formation

Can my pet still get a pyometra if the uterus is left in place?

In short, no. Pyometra is a condition involving the formation of pus within the uterus which can develop in unneutered pets due to the hormonal influence of progesterone on the uterus. The ovaries are responsible for the production of the hormone progesterone. When the ovaries are removed, progesterone no longer has an effect on the uterus preventing a pyometra occurring

What to expect

Your pet will be admitted by either a vet or nurse on the morning of the procedure. Pets must have been prevented eating food from midnight the night before the procedure but can be allowed access to water.

Once admitted, they will have an injection to help them relax and will then undergo a general anaesthetic, as for all operations. The hair on the stomach will be clipped and the skin cleaned in preparation for the operation.

During the procedure, two small incisions (less than 1cm) are made through the skin into the abdomen. This allows the instruments to be passed into the abdomen. The ovaries are both removed using cautery, so no internal sutures are used. The two incisions are then closed, usually with dissolvable sutures. Your pet will go home the same day.

As with all laparoscopic procedures, during the admission appointment, we will always ask for your consent to convert to an open procedure if necessary. It is extremely rare this would be necessary and would only be performed if absolutely necessary to protect your pet.

Post-operative care:

During the discharge appointment, we will go through all the information you need. Your pet will be sent home with either a plastic collar to prevent them licking their wounds or a medical pet shirt, depending on which you feel will be better for your dog. These should be worn at all times following the procedure, unless under supervision.

Following Laparoscopic procedures, your pet should be back to normal within 24 hours. You will be invited for a free post-operative check two and seven days after surgery to check your pet is recovering well. They should be kept on the lead for at least seven days at which point we will assess your pet and confirm normal exercise can be resumed if we are happy with the recovery. Anti-inflammatory painkillers will be provided for your pet and should be given once daily until the post-operative check-up.

Laparoscopic surgery is available not only to our clients but also to patients referred to us from other veterinary practices. Please contact us for further information.