Laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy using electrosurgical instrumentation in standing horses.
Authors: Hanrath Monique, Rodgerson Dwayne H
Journal: Veterinary surgery : VS
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Standing Laparoscopic Cryptorchidectomy in Horses Retained testes (cryptorchidism) present a surgical challenge, particularly when bilateral or intra-abdominal, requiring techniques that balance safety with minimally invasive principles. Hanrath and Rodgerson evaluated laparoscopic removal of retained testes in ten standing horses aged 1–7 years using electrosurgical instrumentation for haemostasis, with animals sedated (xylazine or detomidine plus butorphanol) and restrained in stocks whilst three portal sites were established in the paralumbar fossae under local anaesthesia. Bipolar electrosurgical forceps proved effective for coagulating the mesorchium in nine horses (monopolar used in one), with the mesorchium, ductus deferens, and ligament of the tail of the epididymis subsequently transected using laparoscopic scissors; removal was accomplished either by connecting portal sites or, in two cases, via a retrieval bag without enlarging incisions. All ten horses remained complication-free at 3–11 months post-operatively, demonstrating that electrosurgical coagulation alone provides adequate haemostasis without additional ligation techniques. For practitioners managing cryptorchid horses, this technique offers a minimally invasive standing alternative that reduces general anaesthesia risk, minimises tissue trauma, and appears suitable for both unilateral and bilateral cases, though the small sample size warrants cautious interpretation of safety conclusions.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Standing laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy using electrosurgical hemostasis is a safe, effective alternative to traditional castration methods for retained testes in standing horses.
- •Bipolar electrosurgical forceps reliably coagulate mesorchial vessels without causing complications, making this technique practical for field or clinic use.
- •This approach allows horses to remain standing throughout the procedure, reducing anesthesia risks and recovery time compared to recumbent surgery.
Key Findings
- •Standing laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy was performed successfully in 10 horses (1-7 years old) with retained testes using electrosurgical instrumentation for hemostasis.
- •Bipolar electrosurgical forceps were used in 9 of 10 horses and monopolar in 1 horse to coagulate mesorchial vessels without complications.
- •No immediate or short-term complications occurred in any of the 10 horses at 3-11 months post-operatively.
- •The technique allowed testis removal either by connecting portal sites (8 horses) or using a laparoscopic retrieval bag (2 horses) without portal enlargement.