Surgical approach for pinealectomy in the calf

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Surgery
• Neuroscience
• Endocrinology

Background:

• The pineal gland plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes.
• Understanding the surgical accessibility of the pineal gland in large animals is essential for experimental research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a surgical technique for pinealectomy in calves.
• To evaluate the feasibility and potential complications of this procedure.

Main Methods:

• Pinealectomy was performed on seven calves using a rostrotentorial craniectomy.
• Control calves underwent a sham operation.
• Surgical techniques included specific head positioning and measures to prevent brain edema (water deprivation, hypertonic solution, head elevation, hyperventilation).
• Postoperative care involved dural suturing and glucocorticoid administration.

Main Results:

• Two pinealectomized calves died perioperatively due to hemorrhage and leukomalacia.
• Five pinealectomized calves and three sham-operated controls survived for further experimental studies.
• The described craniectomy technique provided adequate exposure of the pineal gland.

Conclusions:

• The described rostrotentorial craniectomy is a viable surgical approach for pinealectomy in calves.
• Careful surgical technique and perioperative management are critical to minimize complications such as hemorrhage and leukomalacia.