Laparoscopic ovariectomy in two horses with granulosa cell tumors.

This research paper studies the use of laparoscopic surgical techniques to remove granulosa cell tumors from the ovaries of two horses. The results suggest that this minimally invasive approach can successfully operate on tumors or ovaries up to 20 cm in diameter and can reduce complications that might arise from traditional surgical methods.

Explanation of the Research

• The study focuses on the laparoscopic ovariectomy on two mares that had unilateral granulosa cell tumors. Laparoscopic procedures are minimally invasive surgeries where small incisions are made to introduce a camera (laparoscope) and the surgical instruments into the body, unlike the big incisions made in traditional surgeries.
• For the operations, the mares were positioned with their pelvic area elevated 30 degrees via tilting the operative table. This position helped the surgeons to better visualize the ovaries during the operation.
• A single laparoscopic portal and around 3 to 4 instrument portals were used, allowing the surgeons to employ a triangulation technique to improve visibility and control during the operation.
• The ovarian pedicles (the structure that connects the ovary to the body, supplying it with blood and nerves) were isolated and secured with loop ligations. After this stage, the ovaries were separated from the ligated pedicle and placed in specimen bags to be removed from the body.
• The ovaries or tumors were pulled out through a midline incision made on the belly, commonly referred to as a ventral midline celiotomy.

Findings and Advantages

• Using this technique, it was found that surgeons could successfully remove granulosa cell tumors or ovaries of up to 20 cm in diameter.
• The laparoscopic approach provided tension-free dissection and ligation of the ovarian pedicle. Such freedom avoids complications that may arise from high tension in the pedicles, such as tissue necrosis or severing of the pedicle.
• Compared to conventional surgical techniques, the laparoscopic ovariectomy proves advantageous due to improved suture security, reduced pedicle tension, improved visual observation during surgery, and being less invasive, all of which may lead to a faster recovery time and less post-operative complications for the horses.