Laparoscopic ovariectomy in standing donkeys by using a new instrument

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Techniques
• Equine Medicine

Background:

• Traditional ovariectomy in donkeys can be invasive.
• Development of specialized laparoscopic instruments is crucial for improving surgical outcomes in large animals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a newly developed laparoscopic instrument for performing bilateral ovariectomy in donkeys.
• To assess the instrument's performance in isolating, coagulating, and cutting the mesovarium.

Main Methods:

• Bilateral laparoscopic ovariectomy was performed on six standing female donkeys.
• A novel laparoscopic instrument was utilized for mesovarium manipulation (isolation, coagulation, cutting).
• Ovaries were removed through enlarged paralumbar portals.

Main Results:

• The new instrument successfully achieved hemostasis, coagulation, and cutting of the mesovarium.
• Average time for each ovary removal was 2.8 minutes; total unilateral ovariectomy time averaged 12 minutes.
• No complications, hemorrhage, or oozing were observed during or after the procedures.

Conclusions:

• Laparoscopic ovariectomy in donkeys using the new instrument is a safe and effective procedure.
• The instrument significantly reduced operation time and provided reliable hemostasis.
• The ease of mesovarium cutting with the new instrument facilitates the procedure.