Laparoscopy in Veterinary Abdominal Surgery: Techniques, Applications, and Future Perspectives

Laparoscopy has revolutionized veterinary abdominal surgery by offering minimally invasive approaches that reduce postoperative pain, enhance recovery, and improve surgical outcomes. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of laparoscopic techniques, their applications, and future perspectives in veterinary medicine. The primary focus is to explore the versatility and efficacy of laparoscopic procedures in the management of various abdominal pathologies in animals. The key procedures covered include laparoscopic treatments for pancreatic diseases, cryptorchidism, and ovariectomy, with a focus on their technical implementation and clinical importance. The application of laparoscopy in addressing small bowel obstruction and gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), along with the utilization of gastropexy, highlights its role in managing life-threatening conditions. Splenectomy and diagnostic laparoscopy, including hepatic examinations, are reviewed for their diagnostic and therapeutic potentials. Furthermore, advancements in laparoscopic techniques for gallbladder and biliary tract pathologies are evaluated, demonstrating the breadth of their applicability. The review also addresses the advantages of laparoscopy in veterinary practice, such as reduced invasiveness, shorter hospital stays, and reduction of postoperative complications. However, challenges like the steep learning curve, high equipment costs, and limitations in certain patient populations are critically analyzed. Prospects in the field, including innovations in instrumentation and integration of robotics, are explored to illustrate the potential for enhancing surgical precision and expanding applications. In conclusion, laparoscopy represents a transformative advancement in veterinary abdominal surgery, providing numerous benefits while posing unique challenges. Continued research and technological progress hold the promise of overcoming existing limitations and further optimizing outcomes, paving the way for broader adoption and innovation in the veterinary field.