A dog spay is one of the most common routine surgical procedures in small animal practices. A laparoscopic spay, also known as a ‘keyhole spay’ is a more modern alternative surgical method than the traditional spay. Laparoscopy is an operation with the aid of a camera and it is now commonly utilised in the human medical field. There are a few differences between laparoscopic spays and the traditional spay method. This article will explain what these differences are and answer a few questions that you may have about this procedure.
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Why should I get my dog spayed?
There are many health benefits to getting your female dog spayed or neutered. Most vets strongly advise getting your dog spayed if you are not intending to use them for breeding purposes. Firstly, spaying your dog eliminates the chance of your dog getting pregnant and coming into season/heat. Secondly, spaying your dog will prevent them from developing a serious, life-threatening uterine/womb infection, commonly known as a ‘pyometra.’ Prevention is always better than cure so it is advised to get your dog spayed to avoid being in this unfortunate scary and extremely stressful situation. Cats can also develop pyometras too, although this is a lot less common in felines! Additionally, spayed dogs have a lower risk of developing mammary cancer and tumours as they get older.
Contact your local Vet to arrange the surgery, discuss ideal timings and recommended age for this procedure.
What is a laparoscopic (keyhole) spay?
A laparoscopic spay is often described as a ‘minimally invasive’ procedure. This procedure involves making 2-3 small incisions into your dog’s tummy and removing your dog’s ovaries only using cameras and fine surgical instruments, this is known as an ‘ovariectomy.’
In contrast to this, the traditional surgical spay method involves making a larger incision in the middle of your dog’s tummy near their umbilicus (belly button region) and then their ovaries and uterus (womb) are removed, this is known as an ‘ovariohysterectomy.’ Not to overcomplicate things too much, but some practices who perform the traditional spay method are now also performing ovariectomies!
Both spay methods involve a full general anaesthesia.
Pros and cons:
There are pros and cons to every surgical method and these can often help owners with a decision making process. The following points will discuss some of the pros and cons of a laparoscopic spay:
Pros:
- Quicker healing time and a faster return to normal function and exercise – This can be associated with the procedure being less painful than a traditional spay due to reduced internal tissue trauma.
- Reduced scarring – The surgical wounds are smaller and therefore there will be less scar tissue formation.
- Less sutures/stitches – Less sutures are placed both inside and outside which can also lead to faster healing.
Cons:
- Longer surgical time – Laparoscopic spays can sometimes take longer than the traditional method due to the equipment set up time and fine motor skills required by the surgeon.
- May not be suitable in very small patients – This is often due to the equipment size being too large and bulky for tiny patients!
- Complications – Whilst every surgical method carries risk of complications, in some rare scenarios, the spay may need to be converted to a traditional spay method to allow a bigger field of visualisation. However, this is always carried out in your dog’s best interest.
- Larger fur clip – Because cameras will be inserted into both sides of your dog’s abdomen (tummy), more of your dog’s fur will need to be clipped away for the procedure to be carried out. However, it never takes long for fur to grow back!
Common questions answered:
How much time will my dog be in the Vets?
There will be some variability between practices but your dog will likely be in the vets for 8-9 hours. You will be instructed to drop them off in the morning (without having breakfast!) and you can usually collect them later on that same day.
What is the recovery time?
Following spaying, your dog will comfortably walk out of the practice a few hours after the surgery, with lots of pain relief on board. For such a big abdominal surgical procedure, dogs recover amazingly fast! Your dog may be quite snoozy for 24-48 hours following their general anaesthetic. The most difficult part for Owner’s is often keeping them rested. Exercise will be gradually reintroduced but within 10-14 days your dog should be back to normal.
Do they need to wear a buster collar afterwards?
Some owners can feel really hesitant at the idea of their dog wearing a buster collar, frequently described as the ‘cone of shame!’ I have also experienced my dog running past me with their buster collar on and ripping my legs to shreds! However, buster collars play such a vital role during the recovery period and prevent your dog from interfering and licking their wound which can potentially be disastrous and costly! There are now other alternatives to buster collars including pet shirts/vests (these are a bit like onesies!) and ‘comfy collars’ which some dogs tolerate better. Speak to your vet to discuss these options.
How much is it likely to cost compared to a normal spay?
Laparoscopic spays are more expensive than a normal, traditional spay and there are many reasons for this. The procedure involves highly costly, specialist equipment and experienced surgeons, which cover the main differences in price.
Is it covered by insurance?
Routine neutering procedures are not usually covered by insurance policies.
Can I go to a different Vet if it is not offered by my own Vet?
Of course! Only a very small proportion of UK Veterinary practices offer laparoscopic spays because this method requires specialist equipment and an experienced surgeon. Your vet can refer you to an alternative practice if needed, and it’s really important that both vets are kept in the loop.
Conclusion:
To conclude, keyhole surgery is not a service offered at my current place of work. I hope that this article has given you an insight into laparoscopic spays and whilst currently there are lots of practices who do not offer this service, with the advancement of Veterinary medicine it may become more available in the future.
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