Laser Surgery

Available and Affordable for our patients!

What is a laser?

Laser technology is becoming a valuable tool for the progressive veterinarian. Until recently humans were the only ones to benefit from laser technology, now pet owners have the option to provide their pets with the same level of care. Laser surgery is becoming more and more common as the veterinary field continues to progress, and conscientious pet owners demand modern and safe techniques for their pet’s care.

A laser is a surgical tool used by a trained veterinarian that generates an intense beam of light at a specific wavelength. The laser is an invisible beam that vaporizes the water normally found in the skin and soft tissue. The laser takes the place of the scalpel blade but causes less trauma to the surgery site. Laser surgery cannot be used in every surgical situation, however in many procedures the laser can provide a better alternative to traditional surgery. Laser surgery can reduce the trauma to the pet by shortening recovery time spent in the hospital.

What are the benefits of using laser?

Laser surgery can provide several important benefits to the surgical patient. Some of which include:

• Less Pain - In many cases the pet may experience less pain as the laser seals nerve endings as it "cuts." Pain     medication is always recommended for all surgical procedures to insure the comfort of the surgical patient.
• Less Anesthesia - At times, the pet may require less anesthesia during an operation, further reducing the risk of complications and increasing the speed of recovery. Pre-anesthetic blood work is always recommended for the safety of the patient.
• Less Bleeding - The laser seals small blood vessels during surgery - resulting in less blood loss for the patient.
• Less swelling -The laser does not crush, tear or bruise because there is no physical contact with the tissue.
• Reduced risk of infection - The laser sterilizes as it removes dead tissue. We always recommend antibiotics for all surgical procedures to further reduce the chance of infection.
• Precision - The laser can remove unhealthy tissue without affecting or removing surrounding healthy tissue.
• Quick return to normal activities - Healing is rapid and there may be less post-operative discomfort.

What procedures would a laser be beneficial?

The laser can be used in a wide variety of procedures. A laser can be used almost anywhere a scalpel blade would be used. The goal of laser surgery is to produce the desired clinical effect with the smallest amount of damage to surrounding tissue.

• Declaw - The laser is particularly effective for the declaw procedure. Cats that are being declawed with a laser usually recover very quickly with minimal pain, swelling and bleeding. Small kittens (about 2-5 lbs in size) can usually go home the same day without bandages. Antibiotics are always recommended, and the cat should be kept indoors five to seven days afterwards. It is best to replace clay litter with post-declaw-litter or shredded newspaper for about 7 days.
• Tumors, cysts, and wart removals -  Again, the laser is perfect for this type of surgery. If the growth is small enough, no sutures are needed!
• Lick granulomas – many that have been unresponsive to medical treatment respond great.
• Ear crops – accurate, precise and much less discomfort!
• Anal sac removal – now the only way we perform this procedure. It is just so superior done with a laser that it does not make any sense to perform it any other way.
• Soft palate resection - for breathing problems with redundant soft palates
• Ear canal ablation – for chronic ear infections
• Neuter - Orchiectomy
• Spay - Ovariohysterectomy
• Tail docking/amputation – especially in trauma or young pups
• Oral surgery – the laser is perfect for many oral surgery cases

Is the laser safe?

Precautions must be taken when performing or assisting with laser surgery. Each Dr. and technician involved in using the laser unit have received training in its use and care. We have performed many surgical cases and use the laser every day. We know how to use this instrument properly.

Where can my pet receive laser surgery?

We are proud, and fortunate, to offer this technology! At the time of this article, our group of practices own 3 laser surgical units.  We are among a few elite clinics in Hamilton, Butler and Warren Counties to offer this high tech surgery.

How much does the laser cost?

Less than you would expect! We want to use this amazing tool whenever it would benefit the pet, therefore, we have priced this very affordably – under $60.

Make sure you ask us for exact estimates and details!