Abdominal and thoracic laparoscopy can be used for various conditions in horses. This minimally invasive surgery enables patients to return immediately to training and showing. In addition, with laparoscopy there are fewer complications.

Abdominal Cryptorchids are performed when one testicle is down and the other is up in the abdomen. Although unilateral cases can be performed standing, Dr.  Dean prefers to do them down so that the regular castration site can be closed. Immediate closure after castration results in an instant gelding that can be turned out or ridden within a few days and without a draining incision. The obvious advantage of laparoscopy is a small incision of 1 cm that virtually eliminates the risk of evisceration and the need for postoperative stall rest.

Ovariectomy involves the removal of normal and diseased ovaries. Laparoscopy, either alone or combined with open procedures, greatly simplifies and is safer than conventional techniques.

Laparoscopy is also helpful in diagnosing certain causes of colic. Although intestinal manipulation is limited using the laparoscopic instruments, some diseases are easily confirmed using the laparoscopy such as ruptured stomach, as well as many causes of chronic colic.

Colopexy and Nephrosplenic Space Ablation were developed to prevent recurrent colon torsion (colopexy) or recurring dorsal displacement of the left colon these procedures, previously requiring laparotomy. Nephrosplenic space ablation is done standing under IV anesthesia.

All laparoscopy procedures require feed to be removed for 48 hours prior to surgery. This can be done at home or the patient can be admitted to our hospital early.