Paralumbar fossa laparoscopic ovariectomy in horses with use of Endoloop ligatures.

The study presents a technique for surgically removing ovaries in horses using laparoscopic methods incorporating Endoloop ligatures. This technique helps avoid the need for a larger incision made in traditional surgery.

Study method and procedure

• The researchers aimed to create an effective laparoscopic ovariectomy technique using Endoloop ligatures.
• Seven mares underwent the procedure, with neuroleptanalgesia and local anesthesia applied to five mares, and general anesthesia to two horses.
• The ovaries were accessed through two portal sites in the paralumbar fossa and a third between the 17th and 18th ribs.
• The researchers filled the abdominal cavity using an automatic carbon dioxide insufflator.
• The mesovarium was compressed using a pair of Endoloop ligatures.
• The team used a 33-mm diameter trocar-cannula unit with a cone-shaped muscle spreader for ovarian extraction.
• The mesovarium was cut between the ovary and the ligatures, and then, the ovaries were removed via the cannula.
• A standard routine was followed for closing the abdominal wall post-surgery.

Study results and conclusion

• The study results showed no significant complications during or after the surgery.
• The developed paralumbar fossa laparoscopic ovariectomy technique using Endoloop ligatures and the 33-mm diameter trocar-cannula proved effective in the ovariectomy of normal ovaries.
• The study concludes that Endoloop ligatures present a valuable alternative for laparoscopic ligation of ovarian pedicles in mares.

This study demonstrates how Endoloop ligatures can be employed in laparoscopic ovariectomy, providing a safer and less invasive method for ovary removal in horses. The success of this technique could have wider applications in veterinary surgery.