Evaluation of the harmonic scalpel for laparoscopic bilateral ovariectomy in standing horses.
Authors: Düsterdieck Katja F, Pleasant R Scott, Lanz Otto I, Saunders Geoffrey, Howard Rick D
Journal: Veterinary surgery : VS
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Harmonic Scalpel for Standing Laparoscopic Ovariectomy in Horses Laparoscopic ovariectomy in standing mares requires reliable haemostasis of the ovarian pedicle to prevent potentially catastrophic postoperative bleeding, yet conventional methods such as ligation or vessel sealing can be technically demanding. Düsterdieck and colleagues evaluated the Harmonic Scalpel—an ultrasonically activated cutting and coagulation device—in eight mares (aged 2–20 years, 410–540 kg) undergoing bilateral ovariectomy, with necropsy examination of ovarian pedicles at 3 and 30 days post-surgery to assess tissue healing patterns. Complete haemostasis was achieved in all cases with a median transection time of 28 minutes per pedicle; histopathological examination revealed only mild to moderate acute inflammation with scar formation at three days, progressing to moderate chronic inflammation by 30 days, with a median coagulation necrosis depth of 2.87 mm and crucially, no evidence of peritonitis, haemorrhage or adhesions. Postoperative complications were limited to transient fever, moderate subcutaneous emphysema and incisional seroma formation—none life-threatening. The Harmonic Scalpel offers equine surgeons a predictable and safe alternative for haemostasis during standing laparoscopic ovariectomy, potentially reducing operative time and the risk of vascular complications compared to traditional suture ligation techniques.
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Practical Takeaways
- •The Harmonic Scalpel is a reliable hemostatic tool for standing laparoscopic ovariectomy and eliminates bleeding complications from the ovarian pedicle
- •Expected recovery involves transient fever and mild subcutaneous emphysema; monitor for incisional seroma formation postoperatively
- •This technique represents a safe alternative to traditional ligation or suturing methods for ovariectomy in standing horses
Key Findings
- •Complete hemostasis of ovarian pedicles was achieved in all 8 mares using the Harmonic Scalpel
- •Median transection time for ovarian pedicle was 28 minutes
- •Necropsy findings at 3 and 30 days showed mild to moderate acute inflammation with no peritonitis, hemorrhage, or adhesion formation
- •Median depth of coagulation necrosis at 3 days was 2.87 mm, indicating controlled tissue damage