What is different about keyhole (laparoscopic) spaying?
Conventional open surgery involves a large incision in your dog’s abdomen with stitches in multiple layers to close the wound. Both the ovaries and uterus are removed with ligatures tied around the blood vessels to prevent haemorrhage.
Keyhole spaying is carried out through three small incisions of 5mm and 10mm through which a camera and the special instruments are inserted. During the procedure the abdomen is inflated with a special medical gas. The ovaries are lifted and the blood vessels leading to them are ligated with a sealing device. This provides a very safe way of sealing the vessels. The ovaries can then be removed through one of the mini incisions. Only one or two stitches are required to close the skin incisions.
What are the advantages of keyhole surgery?
- Less invasive method of surgery resulting in reduced post-operative pain.
- Smaller wounds.
- Recovery times are quicker.
- As the surgical wounds are much smaller the problems associated with wound licking and chewing stitches are much reduced.
- Complication rate is lower.
Keyhole bitch spaying
We are now pleased to be able to offer our clients the option of a keyhole spay procedure. Laparoscopic or keyhole procedures have been carried out in people for many years and have significant benefits over traditional open surgical techniques. Spaying is recommended to prevent unwanted pregnancies and reduces the risk of developing mammary tumours and womb infections.
What should I expect after the procedure?
Your pet should be home with you on the same day. Although keyhole surgery is less painful than conventional surgery, there will still be some mild discomfort. We routinely give strong painkillers during the procedure and provide post-operative painkillers for the first couple of days. Most patients will be back to their normal self within a couple of days. Despite this, we still recommend that you keep your pet quiet for 10 days after surgery.
We will check your pet three and 10 days after the procedure even though the wounds are much smaller and the complication rate is lower.
How much does keyhole spaying cost?
Keyhole surgery requires a higher level of surgical expertise, specialised operating equipment and more nursing assistance during the procedure, thus the cost is a little higher than a traditional spay procedure.
A keyhole spay costs £193.50 (£174.15 for Healthy Pet Club members) in addition to our basic spay cost. Please ask your vet for a quote for your pet.
This procedure takes place at the North End Hospital in Portsmouth for more information please call 02392 668916..
