Choosing the best for your pet: Laparoscopic vs. traditional spay

When it comes to “spaying” your dog, we offer two main surgical paths. While both are performed with the highest standards of safety, understanding the differences helps you make an informed choice for your beloved pet.

Our clinical philosophy: Ovariectomy only

Regardless of the method you choose, our veterinary surgeons perform an ovariectomy (removal of the ovaries only). In our hands, removing the uterus (hysterectomy) is not routine because there is currently no scientific evidence to suggest it offers health advantages. In fact, a full hysterectomy is often more painful and involves a larger surgical site. By focusing only on the ovaries, we ensure a more comfortable experience for your pet.

The advantages of the “keyhole” (laparoscopic) approach

The laparoscopic spay, or “lap spay,” is a minimally invasive technique that has transformed how we care for our community’s pets.

  • Reduced post-operative pain: Because we use tiny cameras and specialised instruments through small incisions, there is significantly less tissue trauma than in a traditional “open” surgery.
  • Magnified precision: The laparoscope provides a high-definition, magnified view of the internal organs, allowing our surgeons to operate with exceptional precision.
  • Faster recovery: Most pets are back to their bouncy selves much sooner, making the 10-day rest period much easier for both the pet and the owner.
  • Smaller wounds: Smaller incisions mean a lower risk of wound complications and a much more comfortable healing process.

Understanding the risks and potential complications

Transparency is at the heart of the trust you place in us. While our team has performed several hundred successful lap spays, it is important to understand the specific risks associated with minimally invasive surgery.

Common laparoscopic considerations

  • Subcutaneous emphysema: During the procedure, we use medical-grade carbon dioxide to gently inflate the abdomen. Occasionally, this gas can escape between tissue planes. While this sounds concerning, it is usually a minor complication that resolves on its own as the body absorbs the gas.
  • Accidental organ trauma: There is a very slight risk of instrument contact with internal organs, particularly the spleen. In an extreme (and very rare) scenario, this could necessitate a splenectomy (removal of the spleen).

Reasons for “conversion” to traditional surgery

In some instances, your surgeon may decide that continuing with a “keyhole” approach is no longer the safest option for your pet. This is called a conversion to laparotomy (open surgery) and may happen due to:

  • Equipment failure: While we use cutting-edge technology, we always have a traditional surgical kit ready as a backup.
  • Anatomical variations: If we discover a pre-existing condition, such as a diaphragmatic hernia or a pet that does not tolerate the increased abdominal pressure required for laparoscopy, we will switch to an open approach to ensure their safety.
  • Uterine abnormalities: If we identify a uterine tumour or abnormalities in the uterine horns or bifurcation, we may convert to an ovariohysterectomy to ensure all unhealthy tissue is removed.

FAQ: Making the right choice

1. Is a lap spay safer than a normal spay?
Both are very safe in the hands of our experienced team. The “safety” of a lap spay comes from the magnified visibility and the reduced physical impact on the body, which improves comfort and recovery.

2. Will my dog still have stitches?
Yes, but they are much smaller! We typically use internal, dissolvable stitches so there is nothing for your pet to “catch” or for you to worry about removing later.

3. Why would you remove the uterus if you usually only remove ovaries?
We only do this if we see something unusual during the procedure, such as large cystic changes or uterine abnormalities. Our goal is always the best long-term health outcome for your dog.