Laparoscopy in Dogs and Cats
Laparoscopic surgery (‘keyhole surgery') in dogs and cats has become more available as veterinarians develop skills in the technique. There are undoubted advantages of laparoscopy not least because of the small incisions and the in situ visibility of the abdominal organs.
Ovariectomy is certainly the most frequent application of laparoscopy in dogs and cats, but there is a disadvantage of leaving the uterus in place since uterine infections or neoplasia can still occur. However, post-operative pain is minimal, there is faster recovery time and healing is quicker.Further applications of the technique are also being practised, for example:
1) Biopsies of the liver, kidneys and intestines
2) Exploratory surgery of the abdomen
3) Cryptorchidectomy to remove a retained testicle
4) Removal of urinary calculi
5) Arthroscopy to examine joints, e.g. for ruptured ligaments.
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