Preparing the dog for exploratory laparoscopy begins with a fasting period between 12 and 24 hours with fresh water available up till three hours before. The urinary bladder, stomach and colon should be empty prior to the procedure. General anesthesia is required to complete the exploratory laparoscopy.
Exploratory laparoscopy is a method in which small incisions are made on the abdomen wall and instruments are inserted through specially designed ports. The procedure is granted visualization through the help of a camera is also introduced through one of these specialized ports. All ports are made on the dog’s midline. The exploratory portion of the procedure depends on the area the veterinarian wishes to view and the need for biopsied tissue.
Following the exploratory laparoscopy, the laparoscope will be removed and CO2 gas will be allowed to escape from the abdominal cavity. The instruments and ports will be removed, allowing the veterinarian to close the abdominal openings using a single mattress suture pattern consisting of non-absorbable suture material.