Veterinary Referral & Outpatient Service

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Keyhole (Laparoscopic) Surgery

At NVRS we can perform laparoscopic surgery, a minimally invasive technique common in human surgery.

A laparoscope (rigid endoscope) is inserted through a small incision and the image is magnified onto a medical monitor, providing the veterinary surgeon with a clear view of internal structures. Minimally invasive surgery can result in a safer, more visual surgical procedure with the added benefit of a smaller incision, allowing for a faster and less painful recovery for patients. The risk of post-operative infection and other complications may also be reduced. Minimally invasive surgery that we can perform includes bitch spays, liver biopsies, tumour biopsies, arthroscopy and pericardectomy.

Common uses for Laparoscopic Surgery:

A traditional bitch spay involves removal of the entire uterus and both ovaries. Ligatures, to prevent bleeding, are placed near the cervix and around the blood supply to the ovaries.

This is performed using an ‘open approach’, i.e. an incision of five to 10cm in length is made in the midline of the belly. The vast majority of bitches are neutered this way. It is actually quite a major surgery for the animal and a relatively tricky operation for the vet. Due to the low cost and rapid recovery of our stoical patients, this is perhaps not always appreciated by owners!

A large proportion of human abdominal surgery is now performed using minimally invasive or ‘key-hole’ procedures. These techniques and instruments can be used to perform a bitch spay too. We are now regularly performing laparoscopic, or keyhole spays.

As is the case with human surgery, there are multiple benefits – less tissue trauma, reduced haemorrhage, reduced infection risk and markedly quicker recovery. This technique is ideal for young dogs and medium to large dog breeds, as these are often very active pets that really benefit from the reduced aftercare required.

Usually only the ovaries are removed during a laparoscopic spay. This is achieved through two small holes, of 5mm and 10mm in diameter. The 5mm hole, or ‘port’, is used for the endoscopic camera, whilst the 10mm port is used for the surgical instruments and for removal of the ovary after resection within the abdomen. There is no need to remove the uterus (unless it is infected – a pyometra), as this will shrink down and become inactive.

Word is spreading about the real benefits of this procedure and we have seen a massive increase in demand over the past year or so. Our team would be very happy to discuss the pros and cons of this method of neutering if you wish to know more.

Arthroscopy is minimally invasive and allows a clear view inside of a joint. Two incisions are made into the joint, one for the arthroscopic camera and the other for the surgical tools.

Footage from the camera is displayed live on a screen, guiding the surgeons and showing them the areas that require attention. Arthroscopy tends to be quick with a short anaesthetic time and a shorter, less painful recovery than open surgery. Due to the small size of the incisions, less scar tissue develops meaning there is less trauma to the joint. It can also be used to remove problem tissues, as well as to shave bones. Common sites for arthroscopy are shoulders, elbows, stifles and the tarsus.