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Updated: Jun 13, 2026
Surgical Techniques to Optimize Ovarian Reserve during Laparoscopic Cystectomy for Ovarian Endometrioma
Published on: January 22, 2022
Standing laparoscopic ovariectomy technique with intraabdominal dissection for removal of large pathologic ovaries in
Matthew P De Bont1, Hans Wilderjans, Olivier Simon
1Dierenkliniek De Bosdreef, Moerbeke-Waas, Belgium.
Objective:
To describe a standing laparoscopic ovariectomy technique with intraabdominal ovarian dissection inside a specimen retrieval bag for removal of large pathologic ovaries through small incisions.
Study Design:
Case series.
Animals:
Mares (n=43) aged 2-21 years and weighing 380-680 kg.
Methods:
Unilateral laparoscopic ovariectomy was performed on 43 standing sedated mares. Ovaries were approached via 3 portal sites, 2 in the paralumbar fossa and a 3rd between the 17th and 18th ribs on the ipsilateral side. Ovaries were dissected free using either a LiNA Tripol-bipolar laparoscopic forceps or a Ligasure Vessel Sealing Device and removed by enlarging the proximal portal site ventrally using a grid technique. Use of a plastic specimen retrieval bag and cannula suction device facilitated intraabdominal dissection of very large ovaries into 2 or more pieces, before removal through small incisions.
Results:
Regardless of size, all ovaries were removed successfully through small incisions (range, 5-10 cm), with no major complications and an excellent cosmetic result. All sport horses returned to previous levels of work or higher, with 93% of breeding mares successfully bred in the 1st season after surgery.
Conclusions:
Large pathologic ovaries can be easily and safely removed by standing laparoscopic ovariectomy on the mare.
Clinical Relevance:
Standing laparoscopic ovariectomy combined with a small flank incision is a safe and highly effective technique for removal of large pathologic ovaries in the mare, negating the requirement for general anesthesia or large incisions.
