Use of an ecraseur for ovariohysterectomy in mares.

The study investigates the use of an ecraseur, a surgical instrument, in conducting ovariohysterectomy (removal of the ovaries and uterus) in 20 mares at different stages of estrus. The procedure proved successful with some complications including intraoperative hemorrhages, postoperation vaginal bleeding, and a hematoma in one case. No adhesive complications between the uterine stump, remains of the broad ligament, and abdominal structures were observed.

Objective of the Study

• The purpose of this research was to evaluate the use of an ecraseur, a specific surgical tool, to perform ovariohysterectomy (removal of the ovaries and uterus) in 20 mares (female horses) across different phases of the estrus (the female reproductive cycle).

Methodology and Procedure

• Mares were grouped into three according to their stages of estrus.
• The ecraseur was used to sever the ovarian branch of the ovarian artery and vein, as well as the ovarian suspensory ligament.
• All other vessels supplying the ovaries and uterus were doubly ligated (tied up in two places to prevent bleeding) and severed.

Findings and Outcome of the Study

• All 20 research subjects survived the surgical procedure.
• Despite the overall success, some complications arose including intraoperative hemorrhage (excessive bleeding during the operation) which was experienced by three mares.
• Two mares experienced postoperative vaginal bleeding.
• A hematoma (a swelling of clotted blood within the tissues) occurred in the remnant of the broad ligament in one mare.
• Upon examination after the operation, no adhesions (abnormal bands of tissue that grow to connect different parts of the body) were detected between the uterine stump (the remnant of the uterus after the procedure), remnants of the broad ligament (a wide fold of the peritoneum that connects the sides of the uterus to the walls and floor of the pelvis in mammals), and the abdominal structures by palpation (examination by touch) per rectum.