Laparoscopic Spay

A laparoscopic spay is an alternative to the traditional method. It is less invasive and allows faster recovery time. In a laparoscopic spay, your female dog will have only her ovaries removed with a camera and vessel sealing device through a keyhole incision (ovariectomy). In a traditional spay procedure, a long incision is made on the abdomen, and both the ovaries and uterus are removed (ovariohysterectomy).

What are the benefits of a laparoscopic spay?

The main benefits of a laparoscopic spay are less pain and a faster healing time than the traditional spay operation. Dogs are under anesthesia for less time, reducing the risk of complications. In larger dogs, a gastropexy can be performed with the camera at the same time as the spay to potentially prevent GDV (Bloat) which is a potentially fatal condition.

Is a laparoscopic spay more expensive than a traditional spay?

Laparoscopic surgery costs more than traditional surgery. Laparoscopic surgery equipment is costly to purchase and maintain, and the procedure takes extra training, experience and a higher level of surgical expertise. The exact variance in cost depends on the size of the dog, however, most owners find the procedure is worth the money.

What dogs should get a laparoscopic spay?

Dogs that are over 30 lbs can get a laparoscopic spay. Laparoscopic spays are especially beneficial for dogs that large, deep-chested, have been through 1 or more heat cycles, or have had puppies.

What are the risks of laparoscopic procedures?

Overall, the risks of laparoscopic spay are much less than that of a traditional procedure. There is less risk of internal bleeding, organ trauma, and infection using laparoscopic techniques. Rarely, it is necessary to “convert” to an open procedure (traditional method) during surgery in order to manage complications.