Complications and need for conversion to laparotomy in small animals.

Laparoscopic procedures provide the advantage of decreased patient morbidity with improved visualization and rapid patient recovery. Complications associated with laparoscopic procedures are discussed. Conversion to open laparotomy may depend on a variety of factors related to the patient, procedure, and surgeon. There are few contraindications for performing laparoscopic procedures, but complications or conversions to an open laparotomy may be expected in a percentage of patients.