About

Nicole Buote, DVM, ACVS, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Clinical Sciences at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, where she is part of the Section of Small Animal Surgery. She serves as the Director of The Cornell University Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center and is involved with the Companion Animal Hospital's Soft Tissue Surgery Service. Her research and clinical interests focus on minimally invasive surgery, including laparoscopy, thoracoscopy, and exploring the use of robotics in veterinary medicine. Dr. Buote also performs interventional radiology procedures aimed at reducing pain and hospitalization times for pets, with additional surgical interests in wound management, trauma, and hepatobiliary surgery in cats. Her work includes gender-based research studying differences in career paths, promotion, and mentorship within veterinary surgery. She has a comprehensive educational background, including a residency in surgery at The Animal Medical Center, a surgical internship at Dallas Veterinary Surgical Center, and a rotating internship at Angell Animal Medical Center. Dr. Buote earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine and holds a Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology from Worcester Polytechnic Institute. She is a board-certified member of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons since 2010 and has held leadership roles in various veterinary societies. Her professional experience includes positions at VCA West Los Angeles Animal Hospital, where she served as Staff Surgeon and Chief of Surgery, and at California Animal Hospital Specialty Group as Head of Surgery.

Research topics

• Medicine
• Clinical psychology
• Political Science
• Intensive care medicine
• Psychology
• Nursing
• Demography
• Surgery

Selected publications

• Laparoscopic stapled partial cystectomy with intraoperative cystourethroscopy for urothelial carcinoma in two dogs

  Veterinary Surgery · 2026-02-11

  articleOpen accessSenior author

  OBJECTIVE: To describe the procedure and short-term outcomes of two dogs that underwent laparoscopic stapled partial cystectomy with intraoperative cystoscopy for excision of solitary, non-trigonal, urothelial carcinoma lesions. ANIMALS: A 12-year-old female spayed mixed breed and a 13-year-old female spayed Siberian Husky. STUDY DESIGN: Short case series. METHODS: Two dogs were diagnosed with a solitary, ventral body to apical, urinary bladder mass (maximal dimensions 1.2 cm and 1.4 cm) on ultrasound. No gross metastatic disease was evident on staging. Both dogs underwent general anesthesia with cystourethroscopy for evaluation of the bladder tumor and lower urinary tract. Laparoscopic stapled partial cystectomy was subsequently performed for excision of the bladder mass with gross margins of 1-3 cm based on concurrent cystoscopic transillumination and assessment of mucosal changes. Two medium/thick (purple) Tri-Staple EndoGIA cartridges (60 mm and 45 mm) were utilized to complete each cystectomy, and the excised bladder tissue was removed via a specimen retrieval bag and submitted for histopathology. The bladders were leak tested with sterile saline instilled via cystoscopy. RESULTS: No leakage was observed from the cystectomy sites. No intraoperative or short-term complications were reported. Histopathology was consistent with completely excised urothelial carcinoma in both cases. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic stapled partial cystectomy was successfully performed with intraoperative cystourethroscopy in two dogs with apical/ventral bladder wall urothelial carcinoma. This closed cystectomy technique may reduce the risk for peritoneal seeding, though more data is needed. Further evaluation is indicated to determine the feasibility in dogs with non-apical/ventral urinary bladder masses.

  PublisherOA PDFDOI

• The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic increased caseload and stress in veterinary surgeons, but positive changes to working environments did occur

  American Journal of Veterinary Research · 2026-02-24

  articleOpen access1st authorCorresponding

  Objective: To report the changes in veterinary surgeon schedules, workflow, and job satisfaction associated with the COVID-19 pandemic from 2020 through 2021. Methods: A voluntary, nonincentivized, anonymized 40-question internet survey was deployed from November 2021 through February 2022. Veterinary surgeons were surveyed regarding schedule alterations and support implemented by their employers during the pandemic as well as changes in their job satisfaction. Associations between demographics and responses were analyzed. Results: 333 respondents, including veterinary surgeons and residents, participated. Most respondents worked in private clinical practice (211 of 320 [65.9%]), followed by academia (95 of 313 [30.3%]). The pandemic significantly affected the work schedule of 245 of 333 respondents (77%), especially those in private practice and influenced by employment position, such as staff surgeon versus owner. 185 of 245 surgeons (76%) reported a stressful work environment, and 244 of 320 (78%) reported an increased caseload. 244 of 320 respondents (76%) felt management responses were supportive of employees; however, only 195 of 314 surgeons (62%) believed their safety was prioritized. While overall job satisfaction decreased from prepandemic levels, 147 of 247 respondents (60%) reported that at least 1 positive change in their work environment occurred due to coronavirus disease 2019 protocols, including the introduction of curbside care and remote meetings. Conclusions: The pandemic affected the working conditions of veterinary surgeons, increasing caseloads and stress. Respondents generally felt supported by their employers who implemented positive changes. Clinical Relevance: Work environment strategies identified as positive should be embraced as workplace stress and higher caseloads have impacted job satisfaction in veterinary surgery.

  PublisherDOI

• Single‐incision laparoscopy for pig ovariectomy and ovariohysterectomy: Safe and feasible in select patients

  Veterinary Surgery · 2026-01-19

  article

  Abstract Objective The objective of the study was to describe a single incision laparoscopic approach to ovariectomy (OVE) and ovariohysterectomy (OVH) in companion pigs. Additionally, we aimed to compare complications and outcomes between production breed and miniature pigs. Study design Descriptive clinical case series. Animals Twenty intact female, client‐owned companion pigs. Methods Records from a university teaching hospital were reviewed for pigs undergoing elective OVE or OVH by single incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) over 1 year (2023–2024). Patient signalment, presenting complaint, surgical and anesthetic techniques as well as complications were recorded. Patient follow‐up was obtained by owner phone communication at least 1 year postoperatively. Complications and outcomes were compared between production breed and miniature pig populations with Mann–Whitney and χ 2 testing for continuous and categorical variables, respectively. Results Production breed (9/20, 45%) and miniature pigs (11/20, 55%) underwent SILS OVE (16/20, 80%) or OVH (4/20, 20%). SILS OVE was successfully performed in all cases. SILS OVH was achieved in one case (25%) in which the uterus was near‐normal; additional OVH procedures (3/4, 75%) performed on miniature pigs with an abnormal uterus were converted to open because of challenges with tissue manipulation. No difference in complications or outcomes was noted between production breed and miniature pigs. Conclusion SILS OVE appears to be a feasible and safe surgical option for both production breed and miniature pigs, with no significant differences observed between groups, while SILS OVH is feasible in select cases. Clinical significance Single incision laparoscopic OVE is a safe and viable alternative to traditional three port laparoscopy for production breed and miniature companion pigs. SILS is an adequate technique for OVH in select patients, suggesting that further investigation of laparoscopy for porcine OVH is warranted.

  PublisherDOI

• One-lung ventilation is well tolerated in dogs undergoing thoracoscopic surgery irrespective of device or side of lung blocked

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association · 2026-03-18

  articleSenior author

  Objective: To report on placement and perioperative outcomes associated with one-lung ventilation (OLV) devices utilized in dogs undergoing thoracoscopic surgery. Methods: This multi-institutional retrospective study included dogs undergoing OLV for elective thoracoscopic surgery between January 2013 and December 2023. Patient data, OLV technique, surgical and anesthetic complications, and perioperative blood gases were recorded. Success of OLV was defined as sustained collapse of the intended lung. Complications were graded from 1 (mild) to 5 (death or euthanasia). Results: 93 dogs (47 female, 46 male) were included. The median age was 9.5 years (range, 0.08 to 14.7 years) and median weight was 26.8 kg (range, 2.5 to 62.8 kg). Devices used for OLV included endobronchial blockers (n = 71), double-lumen tubes (15), selective intubation with an endotracheal tube (1), or unspecified (6). One-lung ventilation was successful in 90 dogs. Conversion to an open approach occurred in 23 cases and was secondary to complications of OLV in 4 cases. Grade 2 (moderate) and 3 (severe) hypercapnia were recorded in 62 of 93 dogs and 11 of 93 dogs, respectively. Grade 2 and 3 hypoxemia were recorded in 10 of 93 dogs and 6 of 93 dogs, respectively. Dogs with left bronchus blockade had significantly lower odds of grade 2 hypoxemia compared to dogs with right bronchus blockade. Conclusions: OLV was successful in most cases. Intraoperative hypercapnia and hypoxemia were commonly reported, but rarely led to conversion and typically resolved postoperatively. Clinical Relevance: OLV is a well-tolerated technique in dogs undergoing thoracoscopic procedures with excellent short-term outcomes.

  PublisherDOI

• Evaluation of sternal recumbency for laparoscopic right lateral liver lobectomy through a transdiaphragmatic port in a canine cadaveric population

  Veterinary Surgery · 2025-02-27

  articleSenior author

  Abstract Objective To evaluate the feasibility of laparoscopic right lateral liver lobectomy in canine cadavers positioned in sternal recumbency with the aid of an intrathoracic transdiaphragmatic trocar (ITT). Study design Ex vivo cadaveric study. Sample population Thirteen canine cadavers. Methods All cadavers underwent laparoscopic right lateral liver lobectomy in sternal recumbency with ITT placement using either laparoscopic stapling or suture loop equipment. Body weight, total surgical time, liver lobectomy time, and surgical complications were documented. After all liver lobectomies, the livers were harvested, and the weight of the liver lobes and distance to the hilus were recorded. Results All liver lobectomies were completed successfully, with two ports placed on the right lateral abdomen and one ITT port. Median total surgical time was 35.5 min (range, 25.1–62.8), median liver lobectomy time was 18.5 min (range, 6.5–42.9), and three cases experienced loss of insufflation due to ITT port failure. A moderate correlation between the weight of the right liver lobe and a longer liver lobectomy time ( r s = .73, p = .0042) was found. Conclusion All right lateral liver lobectomies could be performed in sternal recumbency with the placement of an ITT, regardless of body weight. The ITT was useful in all cases for visualization of the hilus. Clinical significance Laparoscopic right lateral liver lobectomy is feasible in normal canine patients with no hepatic neoplasia or obvious pathology of different sizes in sternal recumbency. The use of a transdiaphragmatic port can help to evaluate proximity to the hilus and manipulation of the liver lobes.

  PublisherDOI

• Presentation, diagnosis, and management of gossypibomas in veterinary specialty hospitals: A multi‐institutional study of 21 cases

  Veterinary Surgery · 2025-07-18

  article

  OBJECTIVE: To report the incidence, management, and outcomes of gossypibomas encountered in veterinary specialty hospitals. STUDY DESIGN: Multi-institutional, retrospective study. ANIMALS: A total of 21 client-owned animals (18 dogs, 3 cats). METHODS: A spreadsheet was generated and distributed to veterinary specialty institutions for case recruitment and evaluation of animals with histopathologic diagnosis of a gossypiboma. RESULTS: A total of 15 of 21 animals were female, and 11/15 females had ovariohysterectomies resulting in their gossypiboma. Median time to representation after initial surgery was 13.5 days (IQR: 4-90). Duration of clinical signs prior to representation was a median time of 5 days (IQR: 1.5-11), and the clinical signs included pyrexia (10), abdominal discomfort (8), lethargy (7), and anorexia (7). The secondary surgery was performed on an urgent basis in 10/21 animals. Animals were hospitalized for a median time of 5 days (IQR: 1.5-11) postoperatively. Postoperative complications occurred in 4/21 animals and included sepsis (1), urinary and fecal incontinence (1), persistent anorexia (1), and aspiration pneumonia (1). A total of 19 of 21 animals survived to discharge. CONCLUSION: Majority of animals had intraabdominal gossypibomas and frequently presented for non-specific clinical signs. Surgical treatment was commonly performed within 1 month prior to re-presentation. Surgical management yielded a good long-term prognosis but may need to be performed urgently. Postoperative complications may be associated with the gossypiboma or the additional surgical intervention required for removal. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Gossypibomas are preventable postoperative complications that can result in high morbidity and mortality but carry a favorable long-term prognosis following surgical excision.

  PublisherDOI

• Presence of hepatolithiasis in dogs undergoing cholecystectomy did not lead to biliary obstruction within the first postoperative year in 14 cases (2014–2024)

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association · 2025-09-17

  articleSenior author

  Objective: To describe the long-term clinical significance of hepatolithiasis identified in dogs undergoing cholecystectomy. Animals: 14 dogs that underwent cholecystectomy at a single university and had evidence of mineralizations or stones within the intrahepatic ducts on preoperative ultrasound between January 1, 2014, and May 31, 2024, were included. Clinical Presentation: Dogs diagnosed with gallbladder disease requiring cholecystectomy and hepatolithiasis on preoperative ultrasound with or without intrahepatic duct dilation. Results: Of 183 dogs undergoing cholecystectomy in 10 years, 14 (8%) were diagnosed with hepatolithiasis on preoperative diagnostic imaging. The median age and weight at the time of surgery were 11 years old (range, 3 to 13 years) and 7.3 kg (range, 1.63 to 30.0 kg), respectively. Gallbladder culture results were available for 12 of 14 dogs, showing no growth in 7 of 12 (58%), unimicrobial growth in 3 of 12 (25%), and polymicrobial growth in 2 of 12 (16.7%). Liver biopsies most commonly revealed hepatitis or cholangiohepatitis (9 of 14 [64%]). None of the dogs had any hepatoliths addressed during the cholecystectomy procedure. Perioperative mortality occurred in 2 of 14 (14%). No dogs surviving the perioperative period required follow-up surgical intervention due to progression or migration of hepatoliths into the common bile duct or other intrahepatic biliary obstruction within a median follow-up of 538.5 days (range, 147 to 3,316 days). Clinical Relevance: Hepatolithiasis did not pose long-term complications in this population of dogs undergoing cholecystectomy. Dogs did not require secondary surgeries or long-term medical management for hepatolithiasis; therefore, the prognosis did not appear to be worse in dogs undergoing cholecystectomy.

  PublisherDOI

• Long-term complications of splenectomy in dogs with benign splenic disease are not associated with mortality

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association · 2025-08-01

  articleOpen accessSenior author

  Objective: Investigate long-term outcomes of dogs that underwent splenectomy for nonmalignant splenic disease and evaluate the risk of postsplenectomy sequelae. Methods: This was a retrospective case series including 104 dogs undergoing splenectomy for a nonneoplastic cause. Medical records created between May 1, 2017, and July 31, 2021, for dogs with ≥ 6-month survival times were reviewed for patient signalment, weight, presence of hemoperitoneum at the time of surgery, indication for splenectomy, and histopathologic diagnosis. A survey was conducted over the phone with dog owners and referring veterinarians to obtain information on survival and incidence of volvulus or torsion of abdominal viscera, blood parasite infection, presumed vascular events, severe or repeated infection, and neoplasia following splenectomy. Survival analysis was performed to assess whether these outcome measures were correlated with mortality. Results: Median follow-up time was 31.4 months (IQR, 19.75 to 45 months). Of 104 patients, 40 (38.5%) developed subsequent neoplasia after splenectomy, 13 (12.5%) experienced a presumed vascular event, 2 (1.9%) experienced a severe or repeated bacterial infection, and none were diagnosed with a blood parasite following splenectomy. Preoperative hemoperitoneum was diagnosed in 26 of 104 patients (25.0%). Preoperative hemoperitoneum, postoperative thrombosis event, subsequent neoplasia diagnosis, and postoperative infection were not predictors of survival beyond 6 months. Age at time of surgery was associated with survival. Conclusions: Patients undergoing splenectomy for benign disease that experienced long-term sequelae were identified. However, an increased risk of death as a result of the complications was not observed. Clinical Relevance: Veterinary patients may experience long-term sequela following splenectomy; therefore, ongoing monitoring is recommended.

  PublisherOA PDFDOI

• The use of needle arthroscope as an alternative to standard laparoscope for prophylactic gastropexy in a dog.

  PubMed · 2025-05-01

  articleSenior author

  Laparoscopic procedures offer advantages over traditional laparotomies due to decreased complications, shorter hospital stays, and reduced postoperative pain. Orthopedic needlescopic procedures, in which a 1- to 1.9-millimeter telescope is used, provide these benefits as well as shorter operation times and even less pain and scarring. Needlescopic abdominal procedures have not been investigated in animals. A successful prophylactic gastropexy under needlescopic visualization in a 51.6-kilogram Great Dane dog is reported. This report demonstrates the viability, safety, and success of needlescopic gastropexy in a dog with the use of a 1.9-millimeter needle arthroscope. Key clinical message: New information is provided for future hypothesis advancement on the use of needle arthroscopes for abdominal and thoracic surgery in dogs.

  Publisher

• The role of minimally invasive surgery in oncology – part 1: laparoscopy

  Veterinary oncology. · 2025-01-29 · 1 citations

  articleOpen accessSenior author

  Recent years have shown a substantial increase in minimally invasive procedures for the management of cancer in human patients, owing to the potential for improved perioperative outcomes and the demonstration of oncologic outcomes that are at least equivalent relative to those of open surgical procedures. In veterinary medicine, applications of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for oncologic patients have experienced a recent expansion, though much work remains to further determine indications and benefits of MIS for these patients. Part 1 of this series serves as a review of laparoscopic applications for abdominal oncologic procedures reported in companion animals and provides a comparative overview regarding data in humans. Considerations including indications, complications, and outcomes unique to MIS for a variety of canine and feline neoplastic diseases are discussed. Future directions for MIS in veterinary oncology, including robotic surgery, near-infrared image-guided surgery, and combination procedures with interventional radiology techniques, are also explored in part 2 of this review.

  PublisherOA PDFDOI

Frequent coauthors

• Valery F. Scharf

  North Carolina State University

  76 shared

• Michele A. Steffey

  University of California, Davis

  70 shared

• Dominique J. Griffon

  Cornell University

  67 shared

• Helia Zamprogno

  Western University of Health Sciences

  67 shared

• Marije Risselada

  Purdue University West Lafayette

  67 shared

• Alexandra L Winter

  Western University of Health Sciences

  61 shared

• Galina Hayes

  New York State College of Veterinary Medicine

  22 shared

• Mark Rishniw

  Cornell University

  10 shared

Education

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

  Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine

  2004

• Bachelor in Biotechnology

  Worcester Polytechnic Institute

  2000

Awards & honors

• Society of Veterinary Soft Tissue Surgery 6th Annual Meeting…
• Journal of American Animal Hospital Association Award for Ou…
• Tau Beta Pi Engineering honors society WPI- inducted in 1999