Laparoscopic (Keyhole) Spaying

We are very proud to be able to offer Laparoscopic Spays here at The Harrogate Vet.

Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive technique which uses small ‘keyhole’ incisions and fine instruments to access and visualise the abdominal organs.

Spaying is removal of part of the female reproductive tract. This is recommended to prevent diseases of the uterus and ovaries such as pyometra (infection of the uterus) and false pregnancy, and also to reduce the risk of mammary cancer.

During a laparoscopic spay only the ovaries are removed, in a traditional spay both the ovaries and uterus are removed. Diseases of the uterus in dogs, including infection (pyometra), are mainly caused by a hormone called Oestrogen. Oestrogen is produced by the ovaries. Both methods of spaying involve removal of the ovaries, so they are both equally as effective at preventing these diseases. Removal of the ovaries alone also causes less trauma and pain than the combined removal of the ovaries and uterus.

Advantages:

There is a reduction in the amount of pain during and after the procedure compared to a traditional spay

Faster recovery and return to exercise

Smaller incisions and reduced surgical trauma

Disadvantages: 

As with all surgery, there are potential risks, including haemorrhage and infection. The risk of complications with laparoscopic spaying is very low.

It is necessary to clip a larger area of fur for a laparoscopic spay due to the location of the ‘keyhole’ incision.

Increased cost due to the requirement for specialised equipment and expertise.

How do I prepare my pet for a laparoscopic spay? 

The evening prior to surgery food should be withheld from 7pm. Water may be offered as normal overnight.

Prior to surgery your pet will receive a full physical examination by one of our vets.

We advise that you consider a pre-anaesthetic blood sample on the day of surgery, this is tested in our laboratory prior to the procedure.

How do I care for my dog after the procedure? 

It is important to restrict exercise to allow optimal healing. Your dog may have gentle, 10-20 minute walks on the lead for the first 48 hours after surgery. Please do not allow them to go into the garden unattended, or to jump up on furniture or run up the stairs!

Your dog will need to wear a pet suit or cone collar to prevent them licking their incisions.

You will be given pain relief to give them once daily.

We will re-examine your dog 48 hours after the procedure.

For more information about the procedure, or to talk to a member of our Team, please contact us on 01423 637333, or email info@theharrogatevet.co.uk.