Laparoscopy in Llamas and Alpacas

Abstract

Accurate differentiation of medical and surgical lesions in the abdomen of camelids often is difficult because of their stoic nature. Peritoneal fluid samples are difficult to obtain and changes in peritoneal fluid constituents may not be specific to surgical or medical conditions. Laparoscopy may provide a rapid method for examination of the abdomen with reduced morbidity compared to that for exploratory celiotomy. Routine laparoscopy for evaluation of reproductive structures in llamas and alpacas appears to be a safe procedure; however, systemic effects of laparoscopy have not been objectively evaluated.

Surgical approach for laparoscopy and laparoscopic anatomy have been described in cattle, horses, and llamas. Abdominal anatomy in camelids is markedly different from horses and cattle. In the context of this article, the term "camelid" is used to refer to procedures equally applicable to llamas and alpacas. When specific differences are notable, the term llama or alpaca is used.