Dorsally recumbent female equine urogenital endoscopic surgery.

This research explores a surgical technique involving an endoscopic surgery approach for female horse (mare) urogenital procedures, specifically focusing on the use of a ventral abdominal approach for laparoscopy. The paper particularly details the benefits of this approach when compared to traditional procedures.

Introduction to the Research

• This research paper discusses a minimally invasive surgical technique applied to female horses, known as dorsally recumbent equine urogenital endoscopic surgery. This approach allows veterinarians to perform various urogenital procedures such as bilateral ovariectomy (the removal of both ovaries) and granulosa cell tumor removal more effectively.

Surgical Approach

• The surgery is performed through the use of laparoscopy, a method that derives its name from two Greek words: “laparo,” meaning the soft space between the hips and ribs, and “scopy,” to observe.
• The ventral abdominal approach for laparoscopy, where the surgery is performed through small incisions on the mare’s belly, is proven versatile through the number of techniques it facilitates.
• Four instrument portals are created in the caudoventral aspect (the lower back area towards the belly) of the insufflated (inflated with gas or air to allow better visualization and maneuverability of organs) abdomen to perform the procedures.

Advantages of the Ventral Approach

• One of the key advantages of this surgical approach is the tension-free closure of all incisions, which greatly reduces the risk of complications post-surgery due to suture tension or wound dehiscence (separation of the surgical incision).
• Another significant advantage is the minimal invasiveness as smaller incisions are used compared to the traditional colpotomy (an incision made through the wall of the vaginal canal) and celiotomy (incision into the abdominal cavity) approaches. This contributes to quicker healing times and reduced scarring.
• The ventral approach provides improved access and visualization of the surgical field compared to traditional methods, possibly reducing operative times and the risk of damage to nearby organs.