Treatments & Procedures

Laparoscopic Gastropexy

Minimally invasive surgical technique for stomach-to-abdominal-wall attachment (gastropexy) performed through 2–3 small incisions with a camera. Preferred technique for prophylactic gastropexy due to faster recovery.

Laparoscopic gastropexy is the minimally invasive version of prophylactic gastropexy, performed through 2–3 small incisions (5–12mm) using a camera (laparoscope) and specialized instruments. It is the preferred technique when available, offering equivalent GDV prevention with faster recovery than traditional open surgery.

Procedure Overview

With the dog under general anesthesia:

  1. Three small port incisions are made in the abdomen
  2. The abdomen is insufflated with CO2 gas to create working space
  3. A laparoscope provides visualization
  4. The pyloric antrum of the stomach is grasped and positioned against the right abdominal wall
  5. The stomach is sutured or stapled to the abdominal wall through laparoscopic instruments
  6. Ports are removed; small incisions are closed with 1–2 sutures each

Advantages Over Open Gastropexy

FeatureLaparoscopicOpen
Incision size3 × 5–12mm8–15cm
Hospital stay4–8 hours1–2 days
Recovery time3–5 days10–14 days
Postoperative painMinimalModerate
Complication rateLowLow-moderate
GDV prevention efficacyEquivalentEquivalent
AvailabilityReferral centers, some GPsMost surgical practices

Combined with Laparoscopic Spay

Many veterinary surgeons now offer laparoscopic ovariectomy (lap spay) combined with laparoscopic gastropexy for high-risk female breeds. This minimizes total anesthesia exposure by performing both procedures in one session.

Limitations

Laparoscopic gastropexy requires specialized equipment (laparoscope, insufflator, laparoscopic instruments) and training. Not all general practice veterinarians offer it — referral to a veterinary surgical specialist or internal medicine-surgery practice may be needed. Cost is typically $300–$800 when performed with spay/neuter.