Laparoscopic
CHOLECYSTECTOMY
Providing a minimally invasive solution for Gallbladder disease
What Is Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy?
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to remove the gallbladder. This procedure is typically recommended for animals with gallbladder disease, such as gallstones or inflammation, which may cause pain, infection, or other complications. The procedure involves small incisions, a laparoscope, and specialised tools to remove the gallbladder with greater precision and reduced recovery time compared to traditional surgery.
Indications for Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy is recommended for pets who have:
Cholecystectomy Procedure
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy procedures involve several key steps, each designed to safely and efficiently remove the gallbladder while minimising tissue trauma and postoperative discomfort for the animal. Here’s an overview of the procedure:
Pre-Procedure Preparation
Before surgery, your pet will undergo a thorough examination, including blood tests, to ensure they are fit for anesthesia and surgery. The veterinarian will discuss the procedure, risks, and expected recovery process with you, ensuring you are fully informed.
Anaesthesia
Your pet will be placed under general anesthesia to ensure they are completely relaxed and pain-free throughout the procedure. An intravenous catheter will be placed for administering fluids and medications during the surgery.
Surgical Incisions
The surgeon will make small incisions in the abdomen, typically around 5-10 mm, through which a laparoscope and specialised surgical instruments will be inserted. These incisions are minimal, reducing tissue trauma and leading to a quicker recovery.
Visualisation
The laparoscope, equipped with a camera and light, is inserted into one of the incisions. It provides real-time images on a monitor, allowing the surgeon to see the gallbladder and surrounding structures. This enhanced visualisation ensures greater precision during the surgery.
Cholecystectomy
The surgeon uses laparoscopic tools to gently detach the gallbladder from surrounding tissues. If there are any gallstones or inflammation, they are carefully addressed as the gallbladder is removed. The procedure is performed with utmost precision to minimise trauma to nearby organs such as the liver or bile ducts.
Closure & Recovery
After the gallbladder is removed, the surgeon checks for any bleeding and closes the small incisions with sutures or surgical glue. Your pet will be monitored as they wake from anesthesia and will be provided with pain relief. Most pets can go home the same day with aftercare instructions to manage pain and restrict activity. A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to ensure proper healing.
Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Benefits in Pets
Overall, laparoscopic cholecystectomy offers numerous benefits for your furry friends, including reduced postoperative pain, faster recovery, and fewer complications, all while improving cosmetic outcomes with smaller incisions. This minimally invasive approach ensures greater precision, less trauma, and a quicker return to normal activities, providing a more comfortable experience for your pet.
Minimally Invasive
Uses small incisions, reducing pain, scarring, and recovery time compared to traditional open surgery.
Faster Recovery
Pets typically recover more quickly, often returning to normal activities within a few days.
Reduced Complications
The technique minimises risks of infection, bleeding, and other complications associated with larger incisions.
Greater Precision
The laparoscope provides high-definition visuals, enabling the surgeon to operate with greater accuracy.
Less Pain
With less trauma to surrounding tissues, pets experience less discomfort after surgery.
Shorter Hospital Stay
Many pets can go home the same day of the procedure due to its minimally invasive nature.