Benefits of Laparoscopic Surgery
The benefits of using minimally invasive surgery
- Reduction in surgical trauma
- Simplified pain management
- Faster recovery time
- Less discomfort after the procedure
Minimally invasive surgery refers to a technique used by veterinary surgeons to provide a less invasive approach to procedures. The goal is to maintain a high level of accuracy, precision and effectiveness while reducing recovery and healing time. It’s used an alternative to ‘open-approach’ surgeries using a large incision. Not all procedures can be done using this method, though we are making strides regularly with expanding the use of this technique. One of the most common minimally invasive procedures we perform at our San Mateo animal hospital is laparoscopic surgery, which refers to minimally invasive procedures performed on the abdomen of a pet.
What Is a Laparoscope?
In laparoscopic surgery, a very small incision is made to allow a laparoscope (a long fiber-optic instrument) into the affected area. The laparoscope has a camera on it, which allows us to see what’s going on without completely opening the area up.
Types of Laparoscopic Surgeries Performed in our San Mateo Clinic
NPVSG provides laparoscopic surgical services including, but not limited to:- Spay surgery to remove a combination of ovaries and uterus
- Prophylactic gastropexy to treat and prevent gastric dilatation and volvulus
- Biopsy and removal of bladder stones
- Treatment for retained testicles
- Adrenalectomy in the case of tumors
- Abdominal exploration for liver, kidney, and GI biopsy as well as gall bladder aspirates
- Cisterna Chyli Ablation to treat Idiopathic Chylothorax
Other Minimally Invasive Surgeries
Arthroscopy
(Joint Procedures)
- Elbow surgery to diagnose and treat conditions such as elbow dysplasia
- Shoulder surgery for bicipital tenosynovitis and OCD lesions
- Knee/Stifle surgery to correct a cranial cruciate ligament disease, such as TPLO, TTA or lateral fabellotibial suture.
- Ankle/hock surgery for OCD lesions and visualizing fractures
Thoracoscopy
(Chest Surgery)
- Thoracic Duct Ligation to treat Idiopathic Chylothorax
- Subtotal Pericardiectomy to remove the sac surrounding the heart
- Pericardial Window to drain fluid from the pericardial sac
Stenting
- Urethral stenting for tumor obstruction
- Tracheal Collapse bridging or stenting
Please keep in mind that each pet’s situation is unique and will require an individualized treatment plan with options that fit their condition and current health status. We will discuss all the available options for your pet and potential outcomes to find the best fit for your companion.
NORTH PENINSULA VETERINARY SPECIALTY GROUP
North Peninsula Veterinary Specialty Group provides minimally invasive procedures, including laparoscopic surgeries in San Mateo, San Francisco and the larger Bay Area.
