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VITOM Microscope

VITOM Surgical Microscope

Minimally InvasiveSanta MonicaDr. Antonio Pedraza
VITOM Surgical Microscope — Los Angeles Laparoscopy Vet

What is vitom microscope?

The VITOM® surgical microscope is an exoscope that provides high-definition, magnified visualization of the surgical field on a large screen. At our Santa Monica practice, Dr. Antonio Pedraza uses VITOM visualization during delicate and microsurgical procedures for dogs and cats across Los Angeles, where fine detail and precision matter. By magnifying anatomy and improving the surgical team's shared view, the technology can support careful, accurate technique during complex steps. It is used as a visualization aid alongside minimally invasive and open approaches rather than as a stand-alone procedure. Whether it is appropriate depends on the case and individual evaluation. Dr. Pedraza determines when enhanced visualization may benefit a particular dog and cat and explains the plan to each family before surgery.

Key facts

Procedure
VITOM Surgical Microscope
Typical use
Delicate and microsurgical steps needing magnified visualization
Access method
Exoscopic visualization aid used during surgery
Anesthesia
General anesthesia, fully monitored
Recovery expectation
Depends on the underlying procedure performed
Referral needed?
Accepted; families and referring veterinarians may request a consultation
When to call urgently
Call urgently for incision bleeding, breathing trouble, collapse or severe pain

Approach

Smaller than traditional open surgery

Recovery

Less dissection, faster recovery

Anesthesia

General, fully monitored

Discharge

Varies by procedure

At Los Angeles Laparoscopy Vet, we are committed to using the latest technology to improve surgical care. One of our most advanced tools is the VITOM® surgical microscope system — an exoscope that provides high-definition, magnified visualization of the surgical field on a large HD monitor.

What is the VITOM and How Does It Work?

The VITOM is a telescopic video microscope mounted on a stable arm above the patient. It captures a highly magnified image of the surgical site and projects it onto an HD screen in real time, with excellent depth of field and illumination. Because it sits 25–75 cm above the surgical field, the surgeon has plenty of workspace. The entire team sees what the surgeon sees, improving coordination on complex surgeries. Our VITOM system even supports 3D visualization for true depth perception — a huge advantage for precision.

How VITOM Technology Benefits Your Companion

  • Enhanced precision: Magnification reveals tiny nerves, vessels, and tissues, leading to more precise cuts and sutures and preserved healthy tissue.
  • Minimally invasive approach to open surgery: Smaller incisions, less dissection, and a faster recovery.
  • Reduced surgeon fatigue and improved safety: Ergonomic posture supports performance throughout longer procedures.
  • Better client communication & education: Optional video / image capture lets us share findings and consult with colleagues.
  • Versatility: Used in spinal, eyelid, ear, and oncologic surgeries — anywhere magnification and a broad view help.

Clinical review

  • Reviewed by Dr. Antonio Pedraza, DVM, MVM
  • Last updated: June 4, 2026
  • Procedure recommendations depend on physical exam, records and diagnostics.
  • This page is educational and is not emergency triage.

Clinical imagery

Real cases from our Los Angeles operating room

Surgical and endoscopic imagery from Dr. Pedraza's recent cases. Some images show internal anatomy and clinical findings.

High-definition surgical monitor displaying a VITOM exoscope view during microsurgery
High-definition view from the VITOM exoscope on the surgical monitor.
Surgical team working with magnified visualization at our Los Angeles clinic
Surgical team operating under magnified visualization.
Close visualization of the surgical field during a VITOM-assisted procedure
Magnified surgical field during a VITOM-assisted procedure.

Clinical references and further reading

These links are provided for educational background. Recommendations depend on individual veterinary evaluation.

Reviewed by Dr. Antonio Pedraza, DVM, MVM

Last updated June 4, 2026

Educational information only. This page does not replace an individual veterinary consultation.

Common questions

VITOM Microscope FAQs

Does VITOM visualization add cost, and do I need a consultation?
VITOM is a visualization aid used during another procedure rather than a stand-alone surgery, so any cost is part of the overall procedure estimate provided after Dr. Pedraza's consultation at our Santa Monica clinic.
How long is recovery when VITOM is used?
Recovery depends on the underlying procedure being performed. By supporting precise technique, magnified visualization may help reduce unnecessary tissue handling during delicate steps.
Is VITOM visualization right for my companion animal's procedure?
Dr. Pedraza determines when enhanced visualization may benefit a particular case during individual evaluation and explains the plan to your family before surgery.

Serving Greater Los Angeles

Care close to home for companion families across the Westside

Located at 2116 Main Street in Santa Monica, Los Angeles Laparoscopy Vet at Sevilla Veterinary Hospital serves dogs and cats from Santa Monica, Los Angeles, West Los Angeles, Venice, Brentwood, Culver City, Beverly Hills, Pacific Palisades, Marina del Rey. Families come to Santa Monica for advanced minimally invasive surgery — laparoscopy, endoscopy, arthroscopy, laser and VITOM-assisted procedures — that may not be available at every general practice.

Los Angeles Laparoscopy Vet at Sevilla Veterinary Hospital

2116 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90405

(310) 310-3704

By appointment · referrals welcome

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