Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows us to examine internal organs and collect tissue samples (biopsies) with precision and minimal discomfort for the pet. This advanced technique uses a small camera and specialized instruments inserted through tiny incisions, providing a clear view of the abdominal cavity. 

Laparoscopy is commonly used to diagnose and monitor conditions affecting the liver, kidneys, intestines, or other organs. 

By enabling targeted biopsies and reducing recovery times compared to traditional surgery, laparoscopy offers a safer, less stressful option for diagnosing complex health issues in pets.

All laparoscopy patients (except exotics and neonates) will be required to be fasted for at least 8 hours prior to their appointment.  Not only does this help reduce risks associated with sedation and anesthesia, but this permits better imaging and easier sampling.

This refers to FOOD ONLY. Your pet may continue to have free access to water until their scheduled appointment time.

Unless your primary veterinarian or the veterinarians at AVID direct you to feed your pet prior to arrival (either due to age, species, or possible disease), all patients need to be fasted.

Laparoscopic studies or sampling surgeries require general anesthesia. This means all patients will be asleep enough that surgery can take place. This allows for easy and proper imaging. 

All patients will receive an individualized anesthetic plan based on their history, current health, any diagnostics performed by your primary veterinarian or elected preoperatively with AVID and the imaging study they are receiving. 

We recommend all patients have preoperative blood work consisting of a complete blood count (CBC), biochemical panel with electrolytes (chemistry), and clotting panel within the last 4 weeks. In addition, patients over 5 years of age are recommended to have a urinalysis prior to anesthesia. And while AVID uses as cardiac-safe medications as possible, pre-operative EKG (electrocardiograph) is also recommended for most patients.

The veterinarians and staff of AVID use state-of-the-art monitoring and anesthesia equipment ensuring all patients receive above-standard-of-care protocols. 

Our standard operating procedure for anesthesia monitoring consists of assessing and recording parameters every 5 minutes including: temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, respiration rate, oxygen saturation, end tidal CO2, depth of anesthesia and peripheral perfusion. 

All patients will have an IV catheter placed and receive IV fluid therapy during anesthesia and while in recovery. Reversal medications will be used on any patient needing it and recorded in the patients medical record.  Patients also have lubrication placed in their eyes, so their eyes may look shiny when they return home.

All patients will receive heat support to help them maintain their body temperature during anesthesia and in recovery.  

All patients will receive CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation)- both physical and pharmaceutical-  unless otherwise noted by the owner that the patient is to be labeled as DNR (do not resuscitate). 

Results will be sent directly to your referring veterinarian so they can continue your pet's care and management.