Why Laparoscopic Ovariectomy is a Superior Option for Your Dog

At Animal Medical of New City, we are committed to providing the most advanced and compassionate care for your pets. One of the cutting-edge procedures we offer is Laparoscopic Ovariectomy, a minimally invasive alternative to the conventional ovariohysterectomy (spay). This technique offers several significant advantages that enhance your dog’s health and well-being, and it represents a shift in how veterinarians approach spaying, particularly for large breed dogs and those spayed later in life.

Why We Recommend Ovariectomy Over Ovariohysterectomy

Traditionally, veterinarians in the United States have performed ovariohysterectomy (OVH), also known as conventional spay, as the standard procedure for preventing unwanted pregnancies and eliminating the nuisance of heat cycles. This approach has been driven by tradition and the widespread belief that removing the entire reproductive tract, including the uterus, is necessary to prevent pyometra, a life-threatening infection of the uterus.

However, recent evidence and experience from veterinarians in Europe—where ovariectomy (OVE) has been the preferred method of spaying for years—show that the incidence of pyometra is no greater when just the ovaries are removed compared to removing the entire reproductive tract. In fact, OVE is equally effective in preventing pyometra, without the need for a more invasive procedure.

Recovering from an OVH carries a higher risk of complications, including increased pain, bloody vaginal discharge, and the potential for granuloma formation between the bladder and colon. Additionally, since the risk of uterine cancer in dogs is quite low, the risks of leaving the uterus in situ are negligible. This makes OVE a safer and less invasive option, particularly for large breed dogs and those being spayed later in life.

Reduced Pain and Physiologic Stress

Laparoscopic surgery is known for its minimally invasive nature, which means your dog experiences significantly less pain compared to traditional open surgery. The procedure involves small incisions, usually less than half an inch, which leads to less tissue trauma. This reduced trauma means that your pet will experience less post-operative discomfort and recover faster.

Smaller Incisions, Faster Recovery, and Lower Risk of Herniation

The small incisions used in laparoscopic surgery not only reduce pain but also minimize scarring. Smaller incisions mean there’s a significantly lower chance of post-operative complications, such as herniation, which can occur with larger incisions in traditional spay procedures. This is particularly beneficial for active dogs who need to get back to their regular activities as quickly as possible. A faster recovery time means fewer days of restricted activity and a quicker return to their playful selves.

Increased Technical Accuracy

One of the standout features of laparoscopic surgery is the enhanced precision it offers. The use of a camera provides a magnified view of the surgical area, allowing our veterinarians to perform the procedure with greater accuracy. Additionally, modern vessel sealing devices allow for controlled hemostasis, reducing the risk of bleeding and ensuring a safer surgery.

Flexibility for Prophylactic Gastropexy

For large breed dogs, laparoscopic surgery also offers the unique benefit of performing a **prophylactic gastropexy**—a preventive procedure that secures the stomach to prevent life-threatening bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus or GDV). This can be done at the same time as the spay, without the need for additional invasive procedures.

An Ideal Option for Large Breed Dogs Spayed Later in Life

With the trend towards spaying dogs later in life, especially large breed dogs, Laparoscopic Ovariectomy becomes even more attractive. As dogs grow older, they often become overweight, and their size can make a conventional spay more challenging and risky. The minimally invasive nature of Lap OVE is particularly beneficial in these cases, as it reduces the complexity and potential complications associated with spaying larger, heavier dogs.

Why Choose Laparoscopic Ovariectomy?

Choosing a laparoscopic ovariectomy for your dog means opting for a procedure that is not only less invasive but also more precise and versatile. The benefits of reduced pain, smaller incisions, faster recovery, lower risk of herniation, and the option for additional preventive care make it a superior choice for your pet’s health. Additionally, for large breed dogs, especially those being spayed later in life, the advantages of this procedure are even more pronounced.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to ensure your pet receives the best care possible.