Complications and Conversion from Endoscopic to Open Surgery

Endoscopic surgery is a rapidly expanding modality of diagnosis and treatment of small animal patients. The development of skills, equipment, and minimally invasive means of correcting complications may be of great importance in decreasing the incidence of conversion from endoscopic to open surgery; however, conversion to an open approach should never be seen as a failure. Conversion should be considered at any time that it is of the greatest benefit for the patient. This concept is important enough to warrant discussion with the owner before surgery and acceptance of the need to convert without further consultation during the procedure.