Laparoscopic ovariectomy using sequential electrocoagulation and sharp transection of the equine mesovarium.

The research described laparoscopic ovariectomy in mares using electrosurgical tools, evaluating the effectiveness of this surgical technique. The test group was 23 mares, consisting of horses and ponies, and the surgery was generally effective with few complications noted.

Research Methodology

• The researchers selected 23 mares for the study, which included both horses and ponies. Their age ranged from 2 to 21 years, and weights varied from 90 to 545 kg.
• Before the surgery, the mares were made to fast for at least 12 hours.
• To facilitate the surgery, the mares were sedated using either detomidine hydrochloride or xylazine hydrochloride. Except for the pony mares, all others were restrained in stocks.
• The surgery began with desensitization of the paralumbar fossa region, where the actual surgery would take place. This was achieved through the application of 2% mepivacaine, an anesthetic.
• Abdominal insufflation was achieved through a teat cannula positioned in the ventral abdomen or a Verres-type needle placed through the paralumbar fossa.
• Following this, the ovary and its surrounding structures (mesovarium, tubal membrane, and proper ligament) were also anesthetized.
• The coagulation and transection of the mesovarium was done successively from cranial to caudal using either bipolar or monopolar electrosurgical forceps.
• The same procedure was repeated for the other ovary, which was removed from the opposite paralumbar fossa.

Results and Conclusions

• The study found that the use of both bipolar and monopolar electrosurgical forceps was straightforward and they effectively coagulated the blood vessels within the mesovarium.
• Out of the 23 mares, two were euthanized following the surgery for reasons not related to the operation.
• One mare showed mild signs of colic 24 hours after the surgery.
• In one case, the surgical wound used to remove one ovary opened up on the 5th postoperative day and was treated by secondary intention.
• However, there were no long-term complications recorded in the remaining 21 horses and ponies 6 to 24 months after the surgery.
• The researchers concluded that laparoscopic ovariectomy and haemostasis of the mesovarium can be successfully accomplished using electrosurgical instrumentation. They considered this technique safe and effective for mares.