Keyhole Surgery (Laparoscopy)

We create 2-3 small ports (5-10mm) in the abdominal wall, insert a camera providing magnified visualisation of internal structures, and use advanced instruments to perform surgery with precision. Carbon dioxide gas creates working space inside the abdomen, allowing us to navigate and operate effectively.

The magnified camera view allows more precise surgery than possible with open techniques. We can see fine anatomical details, carefully preserve blood supply to surrounding structures, and perform delicate procedures with minimal collateral tissue damage.

Ovary-Sparing Desexing:

Removes the uterus while preserving the ovaries, preventing pregnancy while maintaining hormonal benefits for bone health and development. Particularly suitable for large breed dogs where early desexing raises orthopaedic concerns.

Prophylactic Gastropexy:

Surgically attaches the stomach to the body wall, preventing life-threatening gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat). Recommended for deep-chested large breeds at high risk: Great Danes, German Shepherds, Standard Poodles, Weimaraners, and similar breeds. Can be performed during desexing procedures.

Cryptorchid Testicle Removal:

Locates and removes retained testicles in dogs where one or both testicles haven’t descended normally. The keyhole approach causes less pain than traditional open abdominal surgery.

Diagnostic Laparoscopy:

Visualises abdominal organs directly, obtains biopsies, and investigates disease when other diagnostics haven’t provided definitive answers.

Recovery from laparoscopic surgery is generally more comfortable than open surgery, but it’s still surgery requiring appropriate healing time and activity restriction.

Typical Recovery:

• Most pets go home the same-day with pain medication
• Comfortable movement usually within 24-48 hours
• Activity restriction for 7-14 days (no running, jumping, rough play)
• Gradual return to regular activity over 2-3 weeks
• Suture removal at 10-14 days

“Within days” doesn’t mean immediate normal activity. It means your pet feels comfortable moving around the house, eating normally, and showing personality. Full unrestricted activity still requires appropriate healing time.

Keyhole surgery has limitations. We can’t perform it effectively in:

• Very small dogs or cats (limited abdominal space)
• Extremely large dogs (size constraints on equipment)
• Cases requiring extensive tissue removal
• Patients with significant abdominal adhesions from previous surgery
• Emergency situations requiring rapid open access

Traditional open surgery remains necessary and appropriate for many cases. We’ll discuss honestly whether keyhole surgery offers genuine advantages for your pet’s specific situation, or whether traditional surgery provides better outcomes.

Laparoscopic surgery costs more than traditional open surgery due to advanced equipment, additional training requirements, and longer surgical times. The investment offers genuine benefits, including less pain, smaller incisions, and often a faster recovery; however, the cost difference is significant.

We provide estimates for both traditional and laparoscopic approaches when both are viable options, helping you make informed decisions based on your pet’s needs and your financial circumstances.

For more information on Keyhole Surgery, contact Vet HQ Double Bay.