Feline laparoscopic, or lap, surgery, is a minimally invasive process to perform surgical operations. A laparoscopic procedure uses small incisions to operate. A small camera, called the laproscope, is used to enhance the visibility of the surgical site without requiring a large incision. This type of surgery is preferable to use with cats than traditional surgical options, as it is less traumatic and has many recovery benefits.
Abdominal Wall
In felines, the abdominal wall is thinner than in other animals, so veterinarians need to use more care when inserting the laparoscope into the body through the trocar cannula device. The thinner abdominal wall means that the tools have less grip where inserted and can pull out easier.
Surgical Process
After small incisions are made in the surgical area on the cat, carbon dioxide gas is use to inflate the area to make maneuvering the surgical instruments easier, and to give better visibility to the tissue. Compared with dogs and other pets, cats require less pressure from the gas to create a workable surgical area.
Surgical Tools
The tools used in a feline lap surgery are smaller and have shorter working lengths than the tools used in dog lap surgery. This is due to the smaller size of a cat's abdomen and thorax.
Recovery Benefits
Because laparoscopic surgery doesn't require a large incision, cats experience a shortened healing time, reduced pain, fewer stitches, and many procedures are outpatient and do not require an overnight stay in a hospital setting. Healing time is often quicker in cats than dogs, since the incisions, tools and working area are smaller.
Laproscopic Procedures
Gathering tissue samples through laparoscopic means in cats is a common procedure. Many other surgeries can be performed laproscopically, including those involving the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, bladder, stomach, pancreas, spleen, small intestine, colon, uterus and ovaries.
