Our Summary
This study looked at the health outcomes for dogs that underwent two different types of spaying surgeries: laparoscopic-assisted ovary-sparing spay/hysterectomy (LapOSS) and laparoscopic ovariectomy (LapOVE). The researchers used the medical records of 33 dogs that had these procedures between August 2013 and May 2020.
17 dogs had the LapOSS procedure, and 16 had the LapOVE procedure. Out of the dogs that had the LapOSS procedure, about 29% (or 5 out of 17) had to have a LapOVE surgery later on.
The researchers tracked the health of these dogs for an average of about 4 years after their surgeries. None of the dogs developed stump pyometra, a serious infection of the uterus. In the LapOSS group, one dog developed a mammary tumor and two others developed different types of cancer. In the LapOVE group, two dogs developed cancer.
The study concludes that the LapOSS procedure appears to be a safe and reliable method for spaying dogs, with no observed increased risk of serious uterus infection. However, owners should be informed before the surgery about the potential consequences of retaining the ovaries, such as multiple heat cycles.
FAQs
- What are the two types of spaying surgeries that were compared in this study?
- What percentage of dogs that had the LapOSS procedure had to undergo a LapOVE surgery later on?
- What potential consequences of retaining the ovaries should owners be informed of before the LapOSS surgery?
Doctor’s Tip
A doctor might tell a patient that a laparoscopic hysterectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that involves smaller incisions, less pain, and a quicker recovery time compared to traditional open surgery. They may also mention that the risk of complications, such as infection or excessive bleeding, is lower with laparoscopic hysterectomy. Additionally, the doctor might advise the patient to follow post-operative instructions carefully, including taking pain medication as prescribed, avoiding heavy lifting, and attending follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing.
Suitable For
Typically, patients who are recommended for laparoscopic hysterectomy are those who require removal of the uterus due to conditions such as uterine fibroids, endometriosis, abnormal uterine bleeding, or cancer of the uterus. Laparoscopic hysterectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that offers benefits such as shorter recovery time, less pain, and shorter hospital stay compared to traditional open surgery. It is important for patients to discuss their individual health needs and concerns with their healthcare provider to determine if laparoscopic hysterectomy is the best option for them.
Timeline
Before the laparoscopic hysterectomy procedure, a patient may undergo various tests and consultations with their healthcare provider to determine if the surgery is necessary. They may also need to make preparations for the procedure, such as arranging for time off work and organizing post-operative care.
During the laparoscopic hysterectomy procedure, the patient is put under general anesthesia, and small incisions are made in the abdomen to insert a camera and surgical instruments. The uterus is then removed using these instruments, and the incisions are closed with stitches or surgical tape.
After the laparoscopic hysterectomy, the patient may experience some pain and discomfort, which can be managed with medication. They will need to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a period of time as they recover. Follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider will be necessary to monitor their healing and ensure that there are no complications.
Overall, the laparoscopic hysterectomy procedure offers a less invasive and quicker recovery option compared to traditional open surgery. Patients can expect to return to their normal activities within a few weeks and experience relief from any symptoms that led to the need for the surgery.
What to Ask Your Doctor
Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about laparoscopic hysterectomy include:
- What are the potential risks and complications associated with a laparoscopic hysterectomy?
- How long is the recovery process after a laparoscopic hysterectomy?
- Will I experience any long-term effects or changes in my hormone levels after the surgery?
- Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that I should consider before opting for a laparoscopic hysterectomy?
- How many laparoscopic hysterectomies have you performed, and what is your success rate?
- Will I still be able to have children after a laparoscopic hysterectomy?
- What should I expect in terms of pain management after the surgery?
- How soon after the surgery can I resume normal activities, such as exercise or lifting heavy objects?
- Will there be any visible scarring from the laparoscopic procedure?
- Are there any specific dietary or lifestyle changes I should make before or after the surgery to promote healing?
Reference
Authors: Owen MA, Sirr CG, Albright JD, Fransson BA. Journal: J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2023 Apr 28;261(8):1166-1173. doi: 10.2460/javma.22.12.0539. Print 2023 Aug 1. PMID: 37116874