Topographic laparoscopy for buffaloes in the quadruped position

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Anatomy
• Surgical Procedures
• Laparoscopy

Background:

• Endosurgery requires precise anatomical knowledge for safe and effective procedures.
• Establishing optimal surgical access points is crucial for minimally invasive techniques in large animals like buffaloes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To delineate the abdominal anatomical topography of buffaloes in a quadruped stance.
• To identify ideal endoscopic surgical access points and potential limitations.
• To evaluate the feasibility of laparoscopic exploration in buffaloes.

Main Methods:

• Laparoscopic procedures were conducted on 10 healthy female buffaloes.
• Exploration of abdominal access via left and right flanks.
• Utilized the last right intercostal space for enhanced cranial access in five animals.

Main Results:

• Left flank access permitted visualization of gastrointestinal and genitourinary structures, despite the rumen.
• Right flank access was limited by the greater omentum.
• Access via the last right intercostal space enabled visualization of cranial abdominal organs (e.g., liver, kidney, pancreas).

Conclusions:

• Laparoscopic access through the left flank and last right intercostal space is viable in quadrupedal buffaloes.
• These approaches hold significant potential for buffalo abdominal exploration, diagnosis, and treatment.