Veterinarian performing laparoscopic surgery on a pet

Laparoscopic Surgery for Pets in Westminster, CO

Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive veterinary procedure that uses a small camera inserted through a tiny incision in the abdomen. This specialized camera allows veterinarians to view internal organs with precision while performing surgery through very small openings.

At Liberty Animal Hospital, laparoscopic procedures allow us to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, bladder, reproductive organs, and other abdominal structures with less trauma than traditional surgery.

Common procedures performed using laparoscopy include exploratory abdominal surgery, spays, gastropexy procedures, removal of retained testicles, biopsy sampling, and removal of bladder stones.

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Laparoscopic Exploratory Procedures

Laparoscopic exploration allows veterinarians to examine abdominal organs and identify abnormalities such as masses on the liver or spleen. During the procedure, tissue samples can be collected for biopsy to help provide an accurate diagnosis.

Situations Where Laparoscopic Exploration May Be Recommended

  • Suspicion of an abdominal mass
  • Biopsy of a liver, spleen, or abdominal mass
  • Preventive abdominal screening in older pets
  • Liver biopsy
  • Pancreatic biopsy
  • Evaluation of ectopic ureters
  • Confirmation of intestinal conditions such as intussusception

Laparoscopic Spay

A laparoscopic spay allows veterinarians to remove the ovaries or reproductive organs using specialized instruments and small incisions. Compared to traditional spay procedures, laparoscopic techniques generally cause less tissue trauma and allow for faster recovery.

Benefits of Laparoscopic Spay Surgery

  • Less post-operative discomfort compared to traditional spay surgery
  • Improved visualization of internal structures
  • Smaller surgical incisions
  • Reduced risk of internal bleeding
  • Faster recovery time

Laparoscopic Cryptorchidectomy

Some pets have one or both testicles retained inside the abdomen rather than descending normally. Laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy allows veterinarians to locate and remove retained testicles safely using minimally invasive techniques.

Signs a Pet May Need Cryptorchid Surgery

  • One or both testicles not present in the scrotum after six months of age
  • Undescended testicle identified during examination
  • Abdominal discomfort
  • Bloody urine
  • Frequent urination in small amounts
  • Recurrent urinary tract infections
  • General symptoms such as decreased appetite or lethargy

Laparoscopic Gastropexy

Gastric dilation and volvulus (GDV), commonly called bloat, occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself. This life-threatening emergency is more common in large, deep-chested dog breeds.

Laparoscopic gastropexy secures the stomach to the abdominal wall using a small incision, helping prevent the stomach from twisting in the future.

Signs of Bloat or Twisted Stomach

  • Rapidly swelling abdomen
  • Depression or weakness
  • Signs of abdominal pain
  • Arched back posture
  • Unproductive retching
  • Excessive drooling
  • Restlessness and inability to get comfortable

Dogs That May Benefit from Preventive Gastropexy

  • Large or deep-chested breeds such as Great Danes, Standard Poodles, German Shepherds, Weimaraners, and Irish Setters
  • Dogs with family history of gastric dilation and volvulus

Laparoscopy-Assisted Bladder Stone Surgery

Bladder stones develop when urinary crystals accumulate and grow into larger stones. These stones can cause pain, urinary infections, and potentially life-threatening urinary blockages.

Laparoscopic cystotomy allows veterinarians to remove bladder stones while using magnified camera visualization to detect even very small stones that might otherwise be missed.

Signs Your Pet May Have Bladder Stones

  • Recurrent urinary tract infections
  • Crystals detected in urine testing
  • Frequent urination with small amounts
  • Dribbling urine
  • Blood in the urine
  • Discomfort when urinating
  • Abdominal pain

If your pet is showing symptoms of conditions such as bladder stones or gastric bloat, contact Liberty Animal Hospital right away so our veterinary team can evaluate your pet.

Frequently Asked Questions About Laparoscopic Surgery for Pets

What is laparoscopic surgery for pets?

Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a camera and specialized instruments inserted through small incisions to perform surgery inside the abdomen.

Is laparoscopic surgery safer than traditional surgery?

In many cases, laparoscopic surgery results in smaller incisions, less tissue trauma, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

Which procedures can be performed laparoscopically?

Procedures may include spays, gastropexy, exploratory abdominal surgery, removal of retained testicles, biopsies, and bladder stone removal.

How long does recovery take after laparoscopic surgery?

Because incisions are smaller, many pets recover faster and experience less discomfort than with traditional surgery.

Which dogs are at risk for bloat?

Large, deep-chested breeds such as Great Danes, German Shepherds, and Standard Poodles are at higher risk.

Can laparoscopic surgery help diagnose abdominal disease?

Yes. Veterinarians can examine abdominal organs and collect biopsy samples to help diagnose internal conditions.

When should I contact a veterinarian about abdominal symptoms?

If your pet has abdominal swelling, vomiting, difficulty urinating, or severe pain, contact a veterinarian immediately.