Use of Tubo-Ovarian Ligation Via Colpotomy as A Potential Method for Sterilization in Mares.
Authors: Dini Pouya, Weiland Ana, Boakari Yatta, Scoggin Kirsten E, Esteller-Vico Alejandro, Daels Peter, Ball Barry A
Journal: Journal of equine veterinary science
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Tubo-Ovarian Ligation for Mare Sterilization Researchers investigated whether tubo-ovarian ligation via standing colpotomy—using nylon cable ties to occlude the ovarian blood supply and ligate the oviducts whilst preserving the ovaries—could provide a safe, cost-effective alternative to conventional ovariohysterectomy in mares. Initial in vitro testing confirmed the zip-ties effectively sealed vessels without leakage, prompting five clinical trials in standing mares; whilst the procedure itself proved technically straightforward and efficient, severe postoperative complications emerged within the study period. All five mares developed adhesions between the ischaemic ovarian tissue and surrounding abdominal organs, with four animals displaying clinical signs severe enough to warrant euthanasia, though ovarian ischaemia and loss of function were confirmed ultrasonographically and biochemically in four of the five cases. Although the technique successfully induced ovarian atrophy through vascular occlusion, the extensive adhesion formation and potential for secondary complications fundamentally compromised its viability as a practical sterilisation method. Equine practitioners should note that whilst standing colpotomy itself is technically accessible, the reported adhesion response represents a significant welfare concern that currently outweighs the theoretical advantages of ovarian preservation in this approach.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Tubo-ovarian ligation via colpotomy cannot be recommended as a sterilization technique for mares due to high rates of postoperative ovarian adhesions and associated morbidity
- •This technique, despite initial surgical success and effective ischemia induction, resulted in severe complications that limited assessment of long-term safety and efficacy
- •Alternative methods for permanent mare sterilization should continue to be pursued, as this approach does not meet the criteria of being safe, effective, and economical
Key Findings
- •Nylon cable ties successfully ligated ovarian pedicles via colpotomy approach in 5 mares, achieving ovarian ischemia confirmed by ultrasound and low progesterone levels in 4/5 mares
- •All 5 mares developed postoperative ovarian adhesions to surrounding abdominal viscera in one or both ovaries
- •Four of five mares required euthanasia due to clinical complications related to ovarian adhesions during postoperative period
- •While technically feasible, tubo-ovarian ligation via colpotomy is not a viable sterilization method due to unacceptable postoperative adhesion formation and secondary complications