Standing laparoscopic laser technique for ovariectomy in five mares

Laparoscopic laser instrumentation and endoscopic stapling techniques were used to perform 10 unilateral ovariectomy procedures on 5 standing Thoroughbred mares. In all instances, mares had a clinically normal reproductive tract and estrous cycle, and ovariectomy was performed to eliminate regular estrous behavior. All procedures were accompanied by minimal trauma and uncomplicated postoperative recovery. Mares were able to resume normal activity 2 weeks after surgery. Regular estrous behavior was eliminated in all 5 mares, although 1 mare continued to have signs of estrous behavior occasionally after the bilateral ovariectomy. Advantages of standing laparoscopic laser ovariectomy over open laparotomy or colpotomy techniques included minimal surgical morbidity, decreased postoperative discomfort, and rapid, uncomplicated healing. Disadvantages of laparoscopic laser ovariectomy included cost of specialized equipment, need for advanced training in laser and laparoscopic surgery, and increased operative time.