Question 1

What is a laparoscopic spay?

Accepted Answer

A laparoscopic spay, also known as a "keyhole spay" or "lap spay", is a minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove the ovaries (and sometimes uterus) through 1-2 tiny incisions, called "ports".  A specialized camera is used to visualize the tissues on a monitor in real-time while small instruments are inserted through these ports to perform the surgery within the abdominal cavity.

Question 2

What is a traditional spay?

Accepted Answer

A traditional spay is the conventional method where open surgery is performed to remove the reproductive organs using a single abdominal incision, typically 3cm-10cm or longer dependent on the size of the patient.  It involves the use of instruments and the doctor's hands to grasp and manipulate tissues within the abdominal cavity. ​

Question 3

What are the benefits of a lap spay?

Accepted Answer

Smaller incisions: 1-2 small incisions (0.5-1.0 cm) are needed, causing less disruption to the abdominal wall and a better cosmetic outcome.  
Less pain: Reduced tissue handling means reduced levels of discomfort and often shorter duration of post-operative pain management.
Better visualization: A high-definition camera allows for precise identification of internal anatomy throughout the procedure.
Better control of bleeding:  bleeding during surgery is less thanks to enhanced visualization and controlled tissue handling using specialized instruments.
Faster recovery: Many patients return to normal activity sooner, with a shorter period of exercise restriction.

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Question 4

What is the difference between an ovariectomy and an ovariohysterectomy?

Accepted Answer

Ovariectomy (OVE) = Removal of the OvariesPreferred laparoscopic approach for routine preventive spays in healthy patientsBoth ovaries are removedOVE has been the standard in Europe for decades with excellent long-term outcomesThe goal is a shorter, less invasive surgery with faster recoveryGood candidates for an OVE include young healthy patients prior to their first heat cycle, or healthy adult patients who have gone through several heat cycles with no signs of uterine disease.
Ovariohysterectomy (OVH) = Removal of the Ovaries AND UterusThe decision to remove the ovaries and uterus is based on several factors, such as breeding history, age of the patient, suspicion for uterine disease, and any recent imaging to suggest uterine pathology.OVH surgeries are performed laparoscopic-assisted.  Most of the procedure will be done laparoscopically within the abdominal cavity.  Once the laparoscopic portion is complete, the ovaries and uterus are pulled through one of the ports (extension of the port incision is often required) to complete procedure. OVH does typically require more time under anesthesia, and potentially a larger incision if the port needs to be extended in order to accommodate the size of the ovaries and uterus. Can't decide? That's what we're here for. Reach out for more info!

Question 5

Is there a concern for removing the ovaries but leaving the uterus?

Accepted Answer

Removing the ovaries eliminates the hormonal influence responsible for many reproductive diseases. As a result, it is extremely uncommon for a healthy uterus to develop pyometra (a uterine infection), and the risk of primary uterine cancer after ovariectomy is less than 0.5%.

The absence of ovarian hormones also substantially reduces the risk of mammary cancer.

Question 6

What is the process like for a lap spay at TAPS?

Accepted Answer

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Laparoscopic Spay