Laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy with a vessel-sealing device in dorsal recumbent horses: 43 cases.

The research shows the successful use of a vessel-sealing device to perform laparoscopic surgery for cryptorchidectomy in horses laid in a dorsal recumbent position. The study covered 43 cases with no complications reported in the short or long term.

Introduction and Method

• The objective of the research was to study and document the laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy procedure in horses, undertaken with a vessel-sealing device.
• The study was retrospective in nature and covered 43 male horses.
• Preoperative protocols included withholding food for 36 hours. The horses were then anesthetized and positioned in a dorsal recumbency.
• Three portals were created for the laparoscopic procedure: one for the laparoscope, two for other surgical instruments. In the case of horses with bilateral cryptorchidism (both testes undescended), a fourth portal was created.
• A vessel-sealing device was used for hemostasis (stopping the flow of blood) and transection (cutting off) of the retained testes.
• Any descended testes were removed via closed castration, followed by primary closure of the surgical incision in the scrotum.
• Procedure times, possible complications, and follow-ups over short-term (14, 30, 60 days) and long-term periods (>1.5 years) were documented.

Results

• All 43 male horses involved in the study underwent laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy. Of these, 13 horses were bilateral cryptorchids, 19 were unilateral cryptorchids with a descended testis, and 11 were unilateral cryptorchids with one previously removed testis.
• In five horses, the inguinal testes were guided into the abdomen before excision.
• The vaginal ring was sealed with endoscopic staples in three of the five horses with inguinal testes.
• The mean surgery time was approximately 31 minutes and no intraoperative or immediate postoperative complications were encountered.
• Also, no short-term or long-term complications were reported.

Conclusions

• The researchers concluded laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy procedure with a vessel-sealing device can be safely and effectively performed in dorsal recumbent horses without resulting in any complications, per their case series.