Endoscopic Surgery

Using a combination of video endoscopy with specialized tools (diode lasers, endoscopic coagulation and cutting devices), a number of diseases previously only managed with open surgery can be performed using endoscopy.

To learn more about Countryside Animal Hospital's endoscopic surgeries, click on one of the topics below to expand.

Ectopic ureters

This condition is a congenital anatomic abnormality that causes urine leakage. It occurs when the ureters (tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder) empty into the urethra downstream from the bladder. Previously, this required open abdominal surgery for re-implantation of the ureters into the bladder. Using endoscopy with a surgical diode laser filament, this condition can now be treated and cured without a single incision. All of the work is done using an endoscope inserted into the urethra.

Kidney cysts

These are large fluid filled cysts that envelop the kidneys, cause abdominal discomfort, decreased appetite and weight loss. Using laparoscopy and a special devise called a “Ligasure Ò,” we can open these cysts to allow fluid resorption by the abdomen! No incisions, quick recovery and very good outcomes!

Pericardial effusions

This is when fluid accumulates around the heart within the pericardium or “heart sac.” This causes major problems with the heart rate and blood pressure as well as fluid accumulation in the abdomen. When not caused by a tumor, thoracoscopy can be used to remove a section of the heart sac, allowing fluid absorption by the chest cavity, resolving the weakness and blood pressure abnormalities. Patients recover much faster using thoracoscopy versus open chest surgery.

Nasal tumors

This type of malignant tumor tends to be a major problem because it obstructs air flow and is difficult to get to surgically. Open surgery involves going through the nose bones, is very painful and not successful at removal of all tumor cells. Using rhinoscopy and either biopsy instrumentation and/or diode laser insertion through the scope, we can often remove most of the nasal tumor, allowing immediately improved breathing and extending quality and quantity of life significantly. With markedly decreased tumor burden, follow up therapies such as radiation and/or chemotherapy may be more successful.

Bladder and urethral tumors

These malignant tumors cause difficult and sometimes an inability to urinate. Using a cystoscope and diode laser, we can often debulk/relieve obstruction caused by these tumors, possibly allowing additional time for chemotherapy to take effect. All done without an incision.

Endoscopic assisted gastropexy

For those breeds susceptible to the devastating “bloat syndrome,” or stomach torsion (GDV), we can perform a minimally invasive gastropexy using laparoscopic assistance. This prevents the stomach from rotating, which is a life threatening condition if not addressed by surgery immediately.

Endoscopic Spay

Using the Ligasure, we can remove the ovaries and perform a partial hysterectomy in most dogs. In larger dogs, this is an excellent minimally invasive option to the conventional Spay surgery.

Countryside Animal Hospital, Hot Springs

1107 Higdon Ferry Road Hot Springs, AR 71913

501-566-1508

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Hours of Operation:

: Mon 8:30 am - 8:30 pm; Tue-Thu 8:30 am - 5:00 pm; Fri 8:30 am - 8:30 pm; Sat 8:30 am - 12:00 pm; Closed Sundays