Laparoscopic-assisted colpotomy for ovariectomy in the mare.

The article describes a surgical procedure for ovariectomy (removing the ovaries) in horses, using a laparoscope for guidance and a device called a chain écraseur through a cut in the vaginal wall (colpotomy). The method shows promise as a cost-effective, quick, and safe alternative to other ovary removal techniques.

Overview of the Technique

• The described surgical technique involved the use of a laparoscope – a long, thin medical device with a camera on its end.
• The laparoscope was inserted into the horse’s abdomen through the left flank, allowing the surgeons to view the internal structures in real-time.
• A cut (colpotomy) was then made in the vaginal wall to allow the introduction of an écraseur. An écraseur is a surgical instrument used for severing tubular structures within the body.
• The écraseur was guided to the ovary, it grasped and removed the ovary, while the action was observed via the laparoscope. The process was then repeated on the right ovary through the right flank.
• After removal of the ovaries, the colpotomy was stitched close, using either a laparoscope or long needle holders, and subsequently healed without complications.

Results and Implications

• The laparoscope provided easy identification of the ovaries and ensured that no other tissues were mistakenly included in the chain of the écraseur during ovary removal.
• The blood vessels feeding the ovaries (mesovarial pedicles) were easily examined for any potential bleeding post ovary removal.
• The total surgical time for this ovariectomy procedure was recorded between 10 to 15 minutes, and there were no post-surgical complications reported.
• This supports the use of laparoscopic-assisted écraseur ovariectomy as a rapid, safe, and cost-effective surgical method when compared to other open and laparoscopic ovariectomy techniques.