Advantages and Disadvantages of Laparoscopy/Thoracoscopy
Advantages
Laparoscopy and thoracoscopy allow many procedures to be performed with minimal post-operative pain compared to “open” surgical procedures. Post-operative complications that can be associated with large surgical incisions are also minimized. In older and debilitated animals minimally invasive surgery is also likely to reduce other post-surgical complications. Improved cosmesis is another advantage compared to large scars from open incisions.
Disadvantages
Not all procedures can be performed using laparoscopic or thoracoscopic means although the list of operations that we can perform this way is ever growing. In all cases, owners of pets who are undergoing laparoscopic or thoracoscopic procedures must be aware that there is a small chance that conversion to an “open” approach may be necessary if that is deemed to be safer. Feel free to discuss with your veterinarian whether laparoscopic or thoracoscopic options exist for your pets problem.