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Procedures performed at Cumming Veterinary Clinic

Laparoscopy

Examination of the abdominal cavity using a rigid scope. This allows non invasive examination of the abdomen and biopsy collection of organs or masses, if needed. Other laparoscocic assisted procedures are: preventative gastropexy, LOVE spays, castration of retained abdominal testicles (cryptorchidectomy), and urinary bladder stone or polyp removal (cystotomy). As we grow into this technology, we are hoping to be able to offer many more surgical procedures. If in doubt, please ask us.

Preventative Gastropexy

This is a surgery to prevent gastric dilation volvulus (GDV) which is common in deep chested dogs such as Great Danes, German Shephards, Iris Setters, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Saint Bernards, Weimaraners, Dobermans and Boxers, to name a few. This is a rapidly fatal condition where the stomach flips over on itself and compromises the blood flow. If this is not addressed quickly, your pet can die within a few hours. GDV is more commonly seen in older dogs. Genetics and diet (large meals) have been also implicated. If a parent has had a GDV before, the offsprings are more susceptible to have this disease process as well.

A preventative gastropexy anchors the stomach into the body wall which will prevent flipping of the stomach. By using MIS, a less than 2 inches incision is needed instead of the usual 8-12 inches incision from the traditional open surgery.

LOVE spays

LOVE stands for Laparoscopic OVE (ovariectomy). This is a minimally-invasive spay that removes the ovaries from healthy female dogs. With this technique, two key-hole incisions are needed to spay your dog. The ovarian ligaments are not torn from the body, but carefully cut and cauterized with virtually no bleeding or pain. Therefore, there is less tissue trauma associated to it which means faster recovery and less pain associated to it (65% less pain than traditional spays as shown by studies done).

Rhinoscopy

This is the examination of the nose and the internal structures of the nose (nasal turbinates, frontal sinuses and nasopharynx). This is usually done as a diagnostic procedure, but foreign bodies can be removed with minimal trauma. This diagnostic tool is used when there are signs of non resolving upper respiratory disease, chronic sneezing or nasal discharge. Direct visualization allows examination of the nose and collection of biopsy samples, if needed.

Otoscopy

This is the examination of the external ear. This can be done to provide direct and improved visualization of the external canal and tympanic membrane, visualization of the milddle ear when ruptured tympanic membrane, foreign body removal, targeted treatment and deep ear cultures.

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