Abdominal Exploratory Surgery in Farmington, NM
Abdominal exploratory surgery allows our veterinarians to directly examine the organs inside your pet’s abdomen when diagnostic imaging or lab testing doesn’t provide enough information to reach a diagnosis. Our team uses careful surgical technique and close monitoring throughout the procedure to keep your pet safe.
Book OnlineAn abdominal exploratory, sometimes called an exploratory laparotomy, is often recommended when a pet is showing symptoms such as persistent vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, or a mass that can’t be fully evaluated through X-rays or bloodwork alone. This procedure gives our veterinarians the ability to directly visualize the intestines, stomach, liver, spleen, and other abdominal organs to identify the underlying problem.
Common reasons a pet may need abdominal exploratory surgery include:
- Suspected foreign body obstruction, such as a swallowed toy or bone fragment
- Abdominal tumors or masses requiring biopsy or removal
- Internal injuries following trauma
- Unexplained internal bleeding or fluid buildup
- Chronic gastrointestinal symptoms without a clear diagnosis from lab testing
Before surgery, our team typically performs pre-anesthetic bloodwork and diagnostic imaging to plan the safest possible approach. During the procedure, your pet is closely monitored under anesthesia, and any abnormal tissue found can often be addressed in the same surgery. Many pets also benefit from laser therapy after surgery to support faster healing.
If your pet is showing signs of abdominal illness or your veterinarian has recommended an exploratory procedure, call (505) 326-2205 to discuss the next steps for your pet’s care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What symptoms might lead a veterinarian to recommend abdominal exploratory surgery?
Persistent vomiting, loss of appetite, unexplained abdominal pain, or a mass that can’t be fully diagnosed through imaging or bloodwork may all lead to a recommendation for exploratory surgery.
Is abdominal exploratory surgery risky for my pet?
As with any surgery, there are risks, but our team takes precautions including pre-anesthetic testing and close monitoring throughout the procedure to keep your pet as safe as possible.
How long does recovery take after abdominal exploratory surgery?
Recovery time varies depending on what was found and treated during surgery, but most pets need a period of restricted activity and follow-up care over the following weeks.
Can a foreign object be removed during the same surgery?
Yes, if a foreign body is identified during the exploratory procedure, it can often be removed in the same surgery to avoid the need for a second operation.
Will my pet need imaging before surgery is recommended?
In most cases, yes. X-rays or other imaging are typically performed first to help guide the diagnosis before exploratory surgery is considered.
What happens if a tumor is found during the procedure?
If a mass or tumor is found, our veterinarians can often take a biopsy or remove it during the same surgery, depending on its size and location.
How soon can my pet eat after abdominal surgery?
Your veterinarian will provide specific instructions, but most pets are gradually reintroduced to food within a day or so after surgery, once they’re recovering well from anesthesia.