Unilateral and bilateral laparoscopic ovariectomy in 157 mares: a retrospective multicenter study.
Authors: Röcken Michael, Mosel Gesine, Seyrek-Intas Kamil, Seyrek-Intas Deniz, Litzke F, Verver Jorrit, Rijkenhuizen Astrid B M
Journal: Veterinary surgery : VS
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Laparoscopic Ovariectomy in Mares Ovariectomy remains a common procedure in equine practice for fertility management, behavioural control, and treatment of pathological ovarian conditions, yet the optimal surgical technique for standing laparoscopic approaches has not been extensively validated across multiple centres. This retrospective analysis evaluated 206 ovariectomies performed laparoscopically in 157 standing sedated mares across multiple institutions, comparing four different haemostatic techniques: linear stapling devices, bipolar electrosurgery (with or without modified Roeder knots), vessel-sealing systems, and diode-laser ligation. Successful laparoscopic dissection was achieved in all mares, though ovarian masses larger than 20 cm required a two-step procedure combining standing flank laparoscopy with subsequent median celiotomy under general anaesthesia; postoperative complications occurred in 17 mares (10.8%), predominantly comprising incisional drainage, infection, and seroma formation, with 88% of flank incisional problems occurring in mares with ovarian tissue larger than 12 cm where electrosurgical instruments had been used for mesovarial dissection. These findings support standing laparoscopic ovariectomy as a reliable, low-morbidity technique for routine cases, though practitioners should consider alternative haemostatic methods—particularly vessel-sealing systems or lasers—when managing enlarged ovaries, and anticipate the need for a staged surgical approach when preoperative imaging reveals masses exceeding 20 cm diameter.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Standing laparoscopic ovariectomy is a viable, low-morbidity option for routine ovariectomy in mares, allowing recovery without general anesthesia risks
- •For ovarian masses >12 cm, consider alternative hemostasis techniques (stapling or vessel-sealing) over electrosurgery, or plan for 2-step procedure with median celiotomy for retrieval to reduce postoperative flank complications
- •Monitor mares with larger ovarian masses closely for postoperative incisional complications; routine cases have excellent outcomes with minimal morbidity
Key Findings
- •Laparoscopic ovariectomy was successfully completed in all 157 mares using standing sedation without general anesthesia
- •Postoperative complications occurred in 17 mares (10.8%), predominantly involving incisional drainage, infection, or seroma formation
- •Mares with ovarian size >12 cm had higher complication rates (88% of complications), particularly when electrosurgical instruments were used for dissection
- •Four hemostasis techniques (stapling, bipolar electrosurgery, vessel-sealing systems, and diode-laser) were successfully employed with comparable outcomes