Advanced, Minimally Invasive Surgery for Pets
At Middle Brighton Vet, we offer advanced laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery, including preventative gastropexy for dogs at risk of bloat (GDV). Using specialised cameras and instruments through tiny incisions, our veterinary team can perform many procedures with less pain, smaller wounds and faster recovery than traditional surgery.
We regularly perform laparoscopic gastropexy for large and deep-chested breeds including Great Danes, German Shepherds, Weimaraners, Standard Poodles and other dogs considered at higher risk of gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV).
Why Choose Keyhole Surgery?
Less pain and fewer complications, enhanced precision through the laparoscopic camera, better cosmetic outcome with tiny incisions, and reduced stress for pets and owners.
Procedures Commonly Performed Using Keyhole Surgery
Desexing (spaying), gastropexy for deep-chested dogs, organ biopsies, and exploratory surgery.
Every surgical patient receives a comprehensive pre-anaesthetic health assessment, modern anaesthetic monitoring, tailored pain relief, and a post-operative care plan with home recovery guidance.
What is a Gastropexy?
A gastropexy is a preventative procedure that permanently secures the stomach to the body wall to reduce the risk of gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV), commonly known as bloat.
GDV is a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists. Even with emergency surgery, GDV can be fatal. A preventative gastropexy dramatically reduces the risk of the stomach twisting and is widely recommended for dogs at increased risk.
FAQ
Is keyhole surgery more expensive than regular surgery?
Yes, it’s typically a little more expensive due to the specialised equipment and training involved.
Can all pets have keyhole surgery?
Not always. Very small animals or pets with certain medical conditions may be better suited to traditional methods. Our vets will advise the safest option for your individual pet.
Can my dog have a gastropexy at the same time as a key hole desexing?
Yes, they can. We offer a laparoscopically-assisted gastropexy which is less invasive than a traditional approach. We recommend this for deep-chested breeds, dogs over 40kg and those with a familial history of gastric-dilatation-volvulus (GDV).
How do I care for my pet after surgery?
Your pet will need a few days of rest, a soft diet, and minimal jumping or rough play. We’ll provide a detailed take-home care sheet and check-in call to ensure recovery is on track.
Is there a visible scar?
Only tiny incision marks - often 5–10 mm in size - that heal quickly and are barely noticeable. One incision that is in the same location as the belly button which helps to hide the scar.
Does gastropexy prevent bloat?
Gastropexy does not prevent the stomach from filling with gas, but it significantly reduces the risk of the stomach twisting, which is the most life-threatening component of GDV.
When should a dog have a gastropexy
Many dogs have the procedure performed at the time of desexing, although it can be performed at any age following a veterinary assessment.
Is laproscopic gastropexy worth it?
For dogs at increased risk of GDV, many owners choose laparoscopic gastropexy because it provides long-term protection against stomach twisting while allowing a quicker recovery than traditional surgery.
Keyhole Surgery & Gastropexy for Dogs
Our team of professionals are here to help make pet care easy. If you have any questions or concerns about your pet's health, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
If you would like to make an appointment you can book online or give us a call to arrange a suitable time.
