Laparoscopy
is a procedure by which we are able to visualize the organs within the
abdomen without having to perform surgery. During
this procedure
your pet is placed under anesthesia and a small needle is
used to fill the abdominal cavity with carbon dioxide. We then make 2
small incisions through which we insert a small camera and other
instruments. With the camera we can see organs such as the liver,
spleen, kidneys, lymph nodes and other internal organs. Biopsies may be
taken as necessary. By actually seeing the abdominal organs we
are better equipped to biopsy specific areas, obtain larger specimens
that maximize the chances of getting a correct diagnosis with a minimal
risk of complications. Complications are unusual but bleeding from
biopsy sites may occur.
These
patients are treated with narcotics for any post-operative discomfort.
In many cases they may go home the same day, although some
may stay overnight.
