Evaluation of the harmonic scalpel for laparoscopic bilateral ovariectomy in standing horses.

The research article analyzes the effectiveness of the Harmonic Scalpel, an ultrasonically activated surgical tool, in conducting laparoscopic bilateral ovariectomies in standing horses, concluding that it is a reliable and safe alternative to other methods.

Research Design and Methodology

• The study is experimental and incorporates eight mares ranging from 2-20 years in age and weighing between 410-540 kg.
• Laparoscopic bilateral ovariectomy was performed on these mares, all of which had normal reproductive tract anatomy.
• The Harmonic Scalpel was used to simultaneously transect and achieve hemostasis of the ovarian pedicle.
• Post-surgery, necropsies were performed on half the mares after 3 days and the rest after 30 days to evaluate the gross and histopathological state of the ovarian pedicles.

Results

• Complete hemostasis of the ovarian pedicles was obtained in all mares, proving the effectiveness of the Harmonic Scalpel.
• The median time for transecting the ovarian pedicle was 28 minutes.
• Postoperative complications observed included transient fever, moderate subcutaneous emphysema, and incisional seroma formation.
• Necropsy examinations revealed no signs of generalized peritonitis, postoperative hemorrhage, or adhesion formation.
• Mild to moderate acute inflammation and scar formation with moderate chronic inflammation was found at the ovarian pedicle at 3 and 30 days post-surgery.
• The median depth of coagulation necrosis was noted to be 2.87mm at 3 days.

Conclusion

• The Harmonic Scalpel demonstrated reliable hemostasis of the ovarian pedicle during elective laparoscopic ovariectomy in horses.
• Its clinical relevance was established as it was deemed a safer alternative to other methods of hemostasis during such surgeries in horses.