Veterinary Laparoscopy in Los Angeles

Laparoscopy (often called "keyhole surgery") is a minimally invasive surgical technique that allows our veterinarian to perform abdominal procedures through very small incisions. Using a rigid fiber-optic camera (laparoscope) and refined instruments, we can examine and operate inside your companion's body with the smallest possible disruption.

Common Laparoscopic Procedures We Offer

• Laparoscopic Spay (Ovariectomy): Routine spays performed through 1–2 tiny incisions instead of a large abdominal opening, dramatically reducing post-op pain and recovery.
• Laparoscopic Gastropexy (Bloat Prevention): For large, deep-chested breeds at risk of GDV, we tack the stomach to the abdominal wall through a keyhole approach. Can be combined with a laparoscopic spay in one anesthetic event.
• Laparoscopic Cryptorchid Neuter: Locate and remove undescended testicles from the abdomen with excellent visualization and minimal incisions.
• Laparoscopic Organ Biopsy & Exploratory Surgery: Targeted biopsies of liver, kidney, pancreas, or intestines under direct camera guidance — safer and more accurate than blind needle biopsies.
• Laparoscopic Cystotomy (Bladder Stone Removal): Laparoscope-assisted bladder stone removal through a small incision for quicker healing.
• Advanced Laparoscopic Procedures: Select cases of laparoscopic cholecystectomy or adrenalectomy when minimally invasive removal benefits your companion.

Booking a spay? See our dedicated laparoscopic spay service page for benefits, candidacy and pricing. Wondering how it compares to a conventional spay? Read our detailed laparoscopic spay vs traditional spay comparison, or learn about preventive laparoscopic gastropexy for bloat (GDV) prevention.

What to Expect from a Laparoscopic Procedure

Your companion typically fasts the evening before surgery and is placed under general anesthesia, monitored throughout with advanced protocols. Most dogs and cats wake smoothly and are up on their feet sooner because of reduced pain. Many routine procedures (spays, biopsies) go home the same day. In the rare event a minimally invasive approach cannot be completed safely, we are prepared to transition to a traditional surgery — your companion's safety always comes first.

By choosing laparoscopic surgery at our Santa Monica clinic, you are choosing the least invasive option for your companion without compromising on effectiveness.

Related reading

• Laparoscopic spay vs traditional spay comparison — how the keyhole approach differs from open surgery.
• Laparoscopic gastropexy for bloat (GDV) prevention — preventive surgery for large, deep-chested dogs.
• Laparoscopic gastropexy for dogs in Los Angeles — our in-depth guide to the procedure.

Ready to take the next step? Book a consultation or contact our Santa Monica clinic.