What is a Laparoscopic Biopsy?
A laparoscopic biopsy is a minimally invasive technique used to obtain tissue samples from internal organs such as the liver, kidneys, pancreas, intestines, and spleen. Using a small camera (laparoscope) and specialised instruments, veterinarians can collect high-quality samples for accurate diagnosis with minimal discomfort to the patient.
This approach is replacing traditional open surgical biopsies, offering faster recovery, less pain, and reduced risks for pets needing diagnostic tissue sampling.
A Brief History of Laparoscopic Biopsies in Veterinary Medicine
🔬 Early Diagnostic Biopsies (Pre-1990s):
Before laparoscopy, internal organ biopsies were performed via open surgery (laparotomy), requiring a large incision and prolonged recovery. This often meant vets avoided biopsies unless absolutely necessary due to the risks involved.
📈 Introduction of Laparoscopic Techniques (1990s–2000s):
With the advancement of human laparoscopic surgery, veterinarians began exploring minimally invasive approaches. The first laparoscopic liver and kidney biopsies in animals were reported in the early 2000s, proving to be safe and effective.
🚀 Modern Veterinary Laparoscopy (2010s–Present):
Today, laparoscopic biopsies are widely used in referral and experienced veterinary centres. They are considered the gold standard for obtaining tissue samples in a way that minimises stress, pain, and recovery time for pets.
Why Are Laparoscopic Biopsies Performed?
Laparoscopic biopsies are commonly used to diagnose conditions affecting internal organs, including:
🩸 Liver Disease: Chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver tumours
🩺 Kidney Disease: Chronic kidney disease, infections, or cancer
💊 Pancreatic Conditions: Suspected pancreatitis or tumours
🦠 Gastrointestinal Disorders: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or neoplasia
🦴 Splenic Disease: Masses or unexplained abnormalities in the spleen
In many cases, a biopsy is essential for confirming a diagnosis and determining the best course of treatment.
How is a Laparoscopic Biopsy Performed?
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and usually takes 30–60 minutes. The key steps include:
1️⃣ Small Keyhole Incisions: One to three tiny incisions (5-10mm) are made in the abdomen.
2️⃣ Insertion of the Laparoscope: A high-definition camera is inserted to visualise the organs.
3️⃣ Targeting the Biopsy Site: The veterinarian identifies the optimal area for tissue sampling using magnified imaging.
4️⃣ Tissue Sampling: Specialised biopsy forceps or a laparoscopic punch are used to gently remove small tissue samples.
5️⃣ Closure & Recovery: The incisions are closed with a few sutures or surgical glue, and the pet wakes up quickly from anaesthesia.
Benefits of Laparoscopic Biopsies Over Traditional Surgery
✔️ Minimally Invasive: Only small incisions, leading to less pain and trauma.
✔️ Shorter Recovery Time: Most pets recover within 24–48 hours, compared to weeks with open surgery.
✔️ Lower Risk of Complications: Less bleeding, reduced risk of infection, and fewer post-operative issues.
✔️ Better Visualisation & Accuracy: The laparoscopic camera provides a magnified view, allowing precise biopsy collection.
✔️ Ideal for Medically Fragile Pets: Reduces surgical stress for pets with existing liver, kidney, or heart conditions.
When is a Traditional (Open) Biopsy Still Needed?
While laparoscopy is the preferred method in most cases, open surgery (laparotomy) may still be required if:
⚠️ The mass or lesion is too large to remove laparoscopically
⚠️ The organ is fragile or at high risk of bleeding (e.g., large spleen tumours)
⚠️ A larger sample is needed for accurate diagnosis
⚠️ There is suspicion of severe adhesions from previous surgeries
In these cases, the vet may recommend traditional open surgery for a more extensive evaluation.
Alternatives to Laparoscopic Biopsies
📌 Ultrasound-Guided Needle Biopsy – A fine-needle aspirate (FNA) can sometimes provide diagnostic information, but the sample is often too small or inconclusive.
📌 CT or MRI Scans – These can identify abnormalities but do not provide tissue samples for definitive diagnosis.
📌 Watchful Waiting – In mild cases, vets may monitor the pet’s condition before proceeding with a biopsy.
For many conditions, however, a tissue biopsy is the only way to confirm an accurate diagnosis and guide treatment.
What to Expect After a Laparoscopic Biopsy
🏡 Same-Day Discharge: Most pets go home the same day after a short recovery period.
🍖 Return to Normal Diet Quickly: Pets can eat and drink within a few hours after waking up.
🐾 Minimal Activity Restrictions: Most pets return to normal activity within 24–48 hours.
🩹 Small, Well-Healed Incisions: Only a few sutures or surgical glues are needed, reducing post-op care.
Most pets show no signs of discomfort after the procedure, making it a stress-free alternative to open surgery.
Final Thoughts
Laparoscopic biopsies have transformed veterinary diagnostics, allowing for precise tissue sampling with minimal pain, quicker recovery, and lower risks. If your pet has been recommended for a biopsy, ask your veterinarian whether a laparoscopic approach is an option.
With faster healing and superior diagnostic accuracy, laparoscopic biopsies are the future of veterinary medicine.