Development of a technique for standing hand-assisted laparoscopic splenectomy in five horses.

The research article discusses the development and application of a standing hand-assisted laparoscopic splenectomy (HALS) technique in five horses. The researchers then outline the complications experienced during the procedure, as well as the outcomes observed after the surgery.

Objective of the Research

• The primary goal of the study was to develop and test an experimental technique called standing hand-assisted laparoscopic splenectomy (HALS) for horses. This surgical method aims at removing the spleen of the horses while the animals remain in a standing position.

The Study Subjects

• The researchers selected five healthy horses weighing between 300-470 kg for the study.

Research Methodology

• The standing HALS technique was used to extract spleens of varying weights (2.25-7.0 kg) from the five horses.
• The researchers documented any challenges they faced during the surgeries, the major one being difficulty in sectioning the gastrosplenic ligament which connects the stomach to the spleen.

Post-Surgery Observations

• Postoperative complications were observed, including adhesion of the colon to the post-surgery wound (the nephrosplenic ligament stump) and discharge from the incision in two of the horses.

Conclusions

• Based on this research, the standing HALS technique was determined to be a feasible experimental procedure for horses of medium size. Its primary benefits include the elimination of the need for rib excision (a surgical removal or breaking up of ribs to gain access to the organ) and general anesthesia.
• However, the researchers concluded that the technique needs further development and refinement, particularly to mitigate the surgically induced complications.