Use of a tissue sealing device for thoracoscopically guided lung biopsy in a pony.

The research article describes the use of the Ligasure Vessel Sealing System in conducting a lung biopsy on an eight-year-old Shetland pony gelding experiencing respiratory distress. The procedure resulted in the extraction of a wedge biopsy for further examination and displayed minimal intraoperative complications, hinting at the potential benefits and effectiveness of the Ligasure device in equine lung diagnostics and treatments.

Research Context

• The research was conducted in the context of equine percutaneous lung biopsy, a procedure usually associated with several intraoperative and postoperative complications such as nosebleeds, rapid breathing, and respiratory distress. The Ligasure Vessel Sealing System, a tissue sealing device, has previously been successful in performing pulmonary resections and lobectomies in human beings and pigs with minimal complications.

Case Presentation

• An eight-year-old Shetland pony gelding presenting with bilateral nasal discharge and coughing for half a year was the subject of this research.
• After a series of tests, including hematology/biochemistry, endoscopy, radiography, and ultrasonography, the pony was found to have abnormalities in its lungs near the heart base.

Procedure Description

• Due to the risky location of the anomaly in the lungs, the researchers opted for a thoracoscopically guided lung biopsy using the Ligasure Vessel Sealing System, rather than risking a potentially life-threatening Tru Cut lung biopsy.
• The pony was sedated and prepared for the procedure, with the biopsy taking place via a rigid laparoscope inserted at the 10th intercostal space.
• The researchers used the Ligasure system to remove a 40x20x10 mm wedge lung biopsy, encountering minimal bleeding during the procedure.
• The biopsy sample was safely removed through the same rigid trochar, and the thoracic portals were then closed routinely. Negative pressure was applied to the thoracoscopic portal before closure to ensure a safe recovery.

Monitoring and Conclusion

• Throughout the procedure, the researchers monitored the pony’s partial pressure of oxygen every 10 to 15 minutes using arterial blood samples to maintain a constant check on the animal’s health.
• In conclusion, the use of the Ligasure Vessel Sealing System in this pony’s lung biopsy showed few complications and significant potential benefits. This technology may lead to safer and more effective equine lung biopsy procedures in the future.