Left paralumbar laparoscopic bilateral ovariectomy in mares.

This study primarily focused on developing a new surgical technique to perform bilateral removal of ovaries (ovariectomy) in standing, sedated female horses (mares) using a minimally invasive laparoscopic approach from the left side of the lower back. The research was performed on twelve healthy, client-owned mares, and despite a third of the mares experiencing mild complications, the surgery was deemed successful in all cases.

Methodology

• The twelve mares involved in the study were all considered healthy with no abnormalities identified in their ovaries through palpation or ultrasound examination.
• The sedated mares were restrained in a standing position within secure stocks.
• A laparoscopic surgical technique was applied involving the use of one portal for the laparoscope and three other portals for various surgical instruments.
• The right ovary was accessed by shifting the descending colon and associated mesentery using a fan retractor.
• Both ovaries were removed utilizing traumatic forceps and a device called a blunt tip vessel sealer.
• The laparoscope was placed in the 17th intercostal space (between the 17th and 18th ribs) to provide a clear view of the right ovary and reduce interference from surgical instruments.

Results

• An overall successful execution of the left paralumbar laparoscopic bilateral ovariectomy was observed in all 12 mares.
• The average time taken for the surgery was recorded at approximately 76 minutes.
• Four out of the twelve mares experienced postoperative complications which included minor fever, mild signs of abdominal pain (colic), swelling at the incision site, and azotemia (an excess of nitrogen compounds in the blood).
• All complications were temporary and resolved over time, after which the mares returned to their usual activity levels.
• Owners expressed satisfaction with the outcomes post-surgery.

Conclusion

The study concluded that the laparoscopic technique developed for removing both ovaries from the left paralumbar region in standing mares was a success. With proper management of minor complications, this approach provides a minimally invasive option for performing ovariectomies in mares, resulting in complete owner satisfaction.