Minimally invasive surgery in Geneva
Minimally invasive surgery is revolutionizing veterinary care by offering precise, less traumatic solutions for your pets. The Vétélys clinic in Vernier Blandonnet – Geneva is equipped with the latest technology to perform cutting-edge procedures such as laparoscopy (=coelioscopy) and arthroscopy, as well as specialized thoracic surgery.
Thanks to the use of cameras implanted within the surgical site, we reduce the invasiveness of the surgical gesture while increasing surgical safety.
These techniques enable advanced diagnosis and treatment, while reducing pain and recovery times. From sterilization to the management of complex pathologies (multiple joint disorders), we are committed to offering your companions the very best.

Minimally invasive veterinary surgery in Vernier Geneva
When to consult? Which illnesses?
Is your pet in a worrying condition? Find out the main reasons to contact our Minimally Invasive Surgery service in Geneva and be treated by one of our vets.
When can my pet benefit from minimally invasive surgery?
Laparoscopic surgery
Laparoscopy is the preferred method for exploring and treating the abdominal cavity.
Its main indications include:
- Laparoscopic sterilization: a less invasive alternative for bitches,
- Recommended procedure for female dogs.
- Less invasive technique, with reduced post-operative pain and rapid recovery.
- Ideal for owners seeking an advanced alternative to conventional sterilization offering rapid recovery.
- Ectopic testicles: location and extraction of undescended testicles, reducing the risk of complications (torsion, cancer).
- Preventive gastropexy: ideal for large breeds prone to stomach dilatation-torsion syndrome (German Shepherds, Great Danes, etc.).
- Liver biopsy: safe sampling to diagnose chronic liver disease or suspect tumors…
Arthroscopy for joint pathologies
Arthroscopy enables joints to be explored and treated with exceptional precision. It is indicated for :
- Elbow dysplasia: Non-union of the anconeal process.
- Fragmentation of the medial coronoid process (MCP).
- Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD).
- Shoulder arthroscopy: treatment of OCD in affected dogs.
- Arthroscopy of the knee: assessment and repair of meniscus damage in the event of rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament.
Thoracotomy surgery
This approach is used to access the thoracic cavity and treat complex conditions:
- Diagnostic exploration: searching for pulmonary, cardiac or mediastinal lesions.
- Treatment of chylothorax: management of lymph accumulations in the thorax.
- Removal of thoracic masses: removal of tumors or cysts.
- Correction of patent ductus arteriosus (PCA): a frequent congenital anomaly.
- Repair of thoracic trauma: complex rib fractures or penetrating injuries.

Emergencies 24/7
Minimally invasive surgery in Geneva Vernier
Minimally invasive surgery consultation procedure
A veterinary emergency consultation in Geneva takes place in 4 stages: initial consultation, preparation and explanations, surgery, and post-operative follow-up.
Anamnesis and memorabilia
- Anamnesis and memorials: we begin by gathering detailed information on your pet’s state of health and medical history. This moment of exchange with you is essential to your pet’s care.
- Clinical evaluation
- Complementary examinations (X-rays, ultrasound, CT scan or MRI) to plan the operation.
Preparation and explanations
- Presentation of the procedure, its advantages and possible complications.
- Informed consent and provision of a detailed estimate
Surgical procedure
- Laparoscopy: insertion of a camera and fine instruments via a 6 mm diameter cannula.
- Arthroscopy: joint exploration and treatment using orthopedic micro-tools.
- Thoracotomy: targeted opening of the thoracic cavity for precise access to organs.
Post-operative follow-up
- Close monitoring in the clinic.
- Personalized advice to ensure rapid, uncomplicated recovery.
Answers to your questions
Find out more about the consultation service
minimally invasive surgery
of Vétélys
What are the advantages of minimally invasive surgery for my pet?
- Less pain thanks to smaller incisions.
- Less invasive surgery = faster recovery time than conventional surgery.
- Precise diagnosis and treatment, limiting post-operative risks.
- Concurrent diagnosis and treatment.
How can I prepare my pet for minimally invasive surgery?
- Make sure your patient is NPO (8 hours before surgery).
- Bring his medical records with you, or have them sent by e-mail to contact@vetelys.ch.
- Report any treatment or health problems to the veterinary surgeon.
Are minimally invasive techniques suitable for all animals?
These techniques are suitable for the majority of animals, but a prior assessment is required to confirm their suitability in terms of health status and pathology.

Testimonials
They’ve been to the Vétélys clinic
Very good practitioners who love animals above all.
Geneva’s best veterinarian
We feel that they really care about our animals’ health, and what’s more, we always get all the explanations we need to understand their minor or major pathologies. Thank you to the whole team for their friendliness and the seriousness of their work.
A big thank you to Dr Cathenoz, for his humanity and professionalism during this traumatic moment that is the euthanization of an animal, until the end he did his utmost to relieve him and was very accommodating so that my dog left in the best conditions with the least stress possible. Thank you to the team, who were gentle and stood back so that we could live this painful moment as well as possible.
Very attentive, patient and gentle with animals.
I called them urgently at 8:30 for my Tonerre and at 9:15 he was taken care of.
Experts insights
Advice from our specialist surgeons:
- For large breeds: preventive laparoscopic gastropexy can save your dog’s life and prevent stomach dilatation-torsion sydrome.
- For lameness or joint pain: arthroscopy enables precise diagnosis and concomitant targeted treatment.
- Prepare your pet for the consultation: ensure safe transport and follow pre-operative instructions.
Dr. Med. Vet. Julie Selz, specialist in surgery, advises
“Minimally invasive surgery isn’t just an option; it guarantees optimum comfort and safety for delicate procedures.”
Consultations
- Laparoscopic sterilization: CHF 1,200 to 1,400.
- Arthroscopy: CHF 2,000 to 3,500, depending on the joint and complexity.
- Preventive gastropexy: CHF 1,200 to 1,500.
- Laparoscopic liver biopsy: CHF 1,200 to 1,500.
- Thoracotomy: CHF 3,000 to 5,000 depending on the procedure.
Clinic specialties
Discover our other specialties