Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures Available at ISU

The Soft Tissue Surgery Service is proud to provide a wide range of minimally invasive procedures. The surgical team applies groundbreaking techniques and utilizes advanced technology for prophylactic, diagnostic, and therapeutic surgical procedures, including prophylactic laparoscopic spays, laparoscopic removal of abdominal cryptorchid (undescended) testicles, laparoscopic-assisted gastropexies, and laparoscopic biopsies.

They also offer more advanced procedures such as laparoscopic lung lobectomies, pericardiectomies (removal of the sac around the heart), and cholecystectomies (gallbladder removal). Minimally invasive surgery, also known as laparoscopy, thoracoscopy, or “keyhole” surgery, is a cutting-edge approach that reduces post-surgery recovery time, scarring, pain and the incidence of certain surgical complications. By performing surgery laparoscopically, the procedure can be accomplished by making one to three small incisions in the abdomen. A laparoscope (camera) magnifies the internal structures of the abdomen onto a high-definition monitor, allowing for greater surgical precision and fewer complications. The small incisions are sutured, and animals are usually sent home the same day as their procedure.

Laparoscopic-assisted gastropexy for the prevention of GDV (gastric dilatation and volvulus) is also available. In cases of large/giant breed, deep-chested dogs, gastropexy can be performed at the time of the laparoscopic spay or in conjunction with a neuter to prevent life-threatening gastric GDV. Laparoscopic procedures can be done in dogs of any size and even in cats. Surgical consultations may be scheduled with the Soft Tissue Surgery Service on Mondays and Wednesdays, with surgery typically occurring the following day.