Laparoscopy, also known as ‘keyhole ’ surgery, is an advanced surgical technique that uses a tiny camera to allow surgery to be performed via two very small surgical incisions. We are very proud to be one of a very small number of practices within Northamptonshire capable of offering laparoscopic surgery and have had brilliant outcomes with the technique since we first introduced it in 2013.
How does it work?
In traditional surgery the veterinary surgeon has to make a surgical incision big enough for their fingers/hands and surgical instruments to pass through and to allow them to visualise to whole of the body cavity. When laparoscopy is used, the abdominal cavity is first inflated with carbon dioxide to allow better visualisation and a tiny camera inserted to allow the veterinary surgeon to view the abdomen on a screen. Very narrow specialised instruments are then used in order to perform the required procedure, only requiring very small incisions, normally less than a centimetre in length.
What are the advantages of Laparoscopy?
With smaller incisions and less tissue handling laparoscopic procedures have quicker recovery times, less post-operative pain, reduced risk of blood loss and reduced risk of infection.
When is it commonly used?
We perform laparoscopic bitch spays five days a week at our Towcester, Weedon and Paulerspury clinics. The technology is also useful to locate and remove retained testicles in male dogs, visualise the abdominal organs for abnormalities and perform biopsies of the abdominal organs.
Is it always the best choice?
Laparoscopy isn’t suitable for our smallest patients, when a large mass or organ is going to be removed or for surgeries entering into one of the abdominal organs.
How much does a Laparoscopic Spay cost?
Our complete prices include the surgery, pre- and post-op care, medication to go home with, a recovery suit or elizabethan collar and one post op check up.
For dogs weighing less than 20kg the cost is £595
For dogs weighing 20 – 40kg the cost is £695
For dogs weighing more than 40kg the cost is £795
All prices include VAT!
Does the patient need to be registered with the practice already?
Laparoscopy is available to all clients! If you are registered with another practice you are welcome to self-refer your pet to our clinic. You will be provided with a summary of the procedure performed and expected recovery to provide to your usual practice. You can register online or by phoning one of our clinics
Please contact us if you have any additional questions regarding laparoscopic surgery or would like to book your pet in for a laparoscopic procedure.
Towcester: 01327 350239, Weedon: 01327 344999, Paulerspury: 01327 366307
