Keyhole Desexing: The Future of Surgery
As veterinary medicine continues to evolve, keyhole surgery, also known as laparoscopy, is becoming an increasingly popular option for desexing procedures. This advanced method offers a less invasive approach, providing significant benefits for your puppy or kitten, as well as the veterinary surgical team. To make an informed decision, it’s essential to understand what keyhole surgery is, how it differs from traditional desexing, and the advantages it offers.
What is Keyhole Surgery?
Keyhole surgery is a minimally invasive technique where small incisions are made to allow the veterinarian to perform the procedure with the help of a laparoscopic camera and cauterizing device. The camera provides a magnified view of the internal organs on a monitor, which allows the surgeon to navigate and perform the surgery with precision.
How Keyhole Desexing Differs from Traditional Desexing
In a traditional female desexing procedure, a 7cm incision is made into the abdomen to remove the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus, known as an ovariohysterectomy. This larger incision results in more tissue trauma and a longer recovery time.
In contrast, keyhole surgery for female desexing involves making two small incisions (about 0.5cm each) through which the laparoscopic camera and cauterizing device are inserted. The surgeon views the procedure on a screen and removes the ovaries only, known as an ovariectomy. This approach requires far less invasive surgical intervention, resulting in numerous benefits for the patient.
Advantages of Keyhole Desexing for Females
1. Less Surgical Stress
A recent study concluded that keyhole desexing causes up to 65% less post-operative pain compared to traditional surgery. This means less stress for your puppy or kitten during recovery.
2. Faster Recovery Time
Due to the small size of the incisions, keyhole surgery is less traumatic and leads to a much quicker recovery. Pets undergoing this procedure can often return home the same day, unlike traditional desexing, which typically requires an overnight stay.
3. Smaller Incisions, Less Pain
The tiny incisions required for keyhole surgery are less painful than larger, traditional incisions. This results in a more comfortable recovery for your pet and less visible scarring.
4. Improved Visualization
The laparoscopic camera allows the surgeon to view the abdominal organs in greater detail, improving the accuracy and safety of the procedure.
5. Additional Procedures
For larger dogs, gastropexy (a procedure to prevent stomach bloat) can be performed at the same time as the desexing procedure.
Keyhole Surgery: A Game Changer in Desexing
Keyhole surgery offers a promising future for desexing procedures, with its numerous advantages including quicker recovery, less pain, and minimal tissue damage. If you’re considering desexing your puppy or kitten, keyhole surgery may be an excellent option to ensure a smoother, faster recovery.
Vetmed Your Specialists in Keyhole Surgery
At Vetmed, our expert team provides personalised care for your furry friend. At your pet’s consultation, we can discuss the suitability of keyhole surgery and determine the best surgical approach based on their breed, size, and health. Desexing is an essential part of your pet’s health plan, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact Vetmed to learn more about keyhole desexing and to schedule your pet’s consultation today. Let us help you make the best decision for your pet’s health and recovery.
Vetmed has four clinic locations across the Eastern Suburbs and Northern Beaches, making it easy to access quality pet care. Visit us at Lindfield, Randwick, Forestville, and Northbridge.