Ovariohysterectomy in six mares.

This research paper explores the outcomes of six mares who underwent ovariohysterectomy due to chronic pyometra, uterine neoplasia, or the removal of a macerated fetus. The main findings highlight the common complications post-surgery, ways to mitigate these complications and the overall importance of the procedure for equine health issues.

Methodology

• The study focuses on six mares that underwent an ovariohysterectomy, a surgical procedure that removes the ovaries and uterus, for various health concerns including chronic pyometra (pus in the uterus), uterine neoplasia (uterine tumors), or the removal of a macerated fetus (fetus that has died and decomposed in the uterus).
• The procedure was executed through a ventral midline incision, a cut along the middle of the belly, providing access to the ovarian and uterine vessels by pulling on the uterus and retraction of abdominal viscera (organs inside the abdominal cavity).

Post-Surgical Complications

• Abdominal pain was the most common complication after the operation, observed in four out of the six mares. However, the pain resolved itself in each case within a span of 36 hours.
• Two mares developed peritonitis, inflammation of the peritoneum (the lining of the inner wall of the abdomen), post-surgery. Unfortunately, one of these mares had to be euthanized due to the severity of the condition.
• Other complications included uterine stump infection (in two mares), abdominal hemorrhage (in one mare), diarrhea (in one mare), and incisional infection (in one mare). These complications were treated and resolved effectively.

Recommendations

• To minimize the post-operative complications, the paper recommends removal of as much of the uterus as possible during the procedure, to reduce the potential for associated infections or complications.
• The research suggests that minimizing peritoneal contamination with uterine contents can help prevent peritonitis.
• Providing a secure closure of the caudal reproductive tract, or the lower part of the reproductive system, is recommended to prevent infections and facilitate the healing process.

Conclusions

• The study underscores the effectiveness of the ovariohysterectomy procedure in managing severe equine reproductive system disorders.
• While post-surgical complications aren’t uncommon, appropriate surgical practices can significantly reduce their occurrence and severity.