Laparoscopic ovariectomy using the endo-GIA stapling device and endo-catch pouches and evaluation of analgesic efficacy of epidural morphine sulfate in 10 mares.
Authors: Van Hoogmoed Linda M, Galuppo Larry D
Journal: Veterinary surgery : VS
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Laparoscopic Ovariectomy in Mares Using Endo-GIA Stapling and Epidural Morphine Van Hoogmoed and Galuppo (2005) evaluated the efficacy of the Endo-GIA II stapling device combined with Endo-Catch pouches for standing ovariectomy in mares, whilst simultaneously assessing whether epidural morphine sulphate improved analgesia and reduced systemic sedation requirements during the procedure. Ten mares with normal ovaries underwent bilateral ovariectomy, with five randomly assigned to receive epidural morphine and five serving as controls; the researchers measured surgical duration, volume of local anaesthetic needed for ovarian pedicle desensitisation, and sedation levels across both groups. Mares receiving epidural morphine required dramatically less operative time (69.2 ± 10.2 minutes versus 124.4 ± 21.2 minutes), substantially reduced systemic sedation, and required less lidocaine for local analgesia, with no operative or post-operative complications observed in either group and only minimal haemorrhage noted. The Endo-GIA stapling technique proved efficient for bilateral ovariectomy in standing mares, and epidural morphine significantly enhanced patient comfort and procedural efficiency by providing superior analgesia. For equine practitioners performing ovariohysterectomies or ovariectomies, this evidence supports considering epidural morphine as part of the analgesic protocol, as it reduces both sedative burden and local anaesthetic requirements—important considerations for standing procedures where minimising systemic effects supports patient safety and recovery.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Laparoscopic ovariectomy using Endo-GIA stapling is a practical, efficient standing procedure for mares with minimal complications
- •Epidural morphine substantially shortens surgery time and reduces total sedative load on mares—consider offering this analgesic protocol for improved welfare and faster recovery
- •This technique minimizes ovarian manipulation and hemorrhage, supporting safer outcomes in routine ovariectomy cases
Key Findings
- •Endo-GIA II stapling device enabled efficient bilateral ovariectomy in standing mares with minimal hemorrhage and no complications
- •Epidural morphine reduced surgical time from 124.4 ± 21.2 minutes to 69.2 ± 10.2 minutes (44% reduction)
- •Epidural morphine significantly reduced systemic sedation requirements and lidocaine volume needed for ovarian pedicle desensitization
- •Epidural morphine provided effective analgesia and improved patient comfort during the procedure