Ovariohysterectomy in Six Mares

Abstract

Six mares had ovariohysterectomy performed for chronic pyometra associated with cervical abnormalities, uterine neoplasia, or removal of a macerated fetus. Ovariohysterectomy was performed through a ventral midline incision with access to the ovarian and uterine vessels aided by traction on the uterus and retraction of abdominal viscera. Abdominal pain, the most common complication after surgery, occurred in four mares but resolved within 36 hours. Peritonitis occurred in two mares; one mare was subsequently euthanatized. Other complications that resolved with treatment included infection of the uterine stump (two mares), abdominal hemorrhage (one mare), diarrhea (one mare), and incisional infection (one mare). Complications after surgery can be reduced by removing as much of the uterus as possible, minimizing peritoneal contamination with uterine contents, and providing a secure closure of the caudal reproductive tract.

Beneficial effect of an indwelling foley-catheter for the treatment of chronic endometritis caused by cervical adhesions in an American Quarter Horse mare – a case report

“…Ovariohysterectomy was performed in mares with chronic pyometra associated with cervical anomalies (Santschi et al 1995, Bartmann et al 2003, Rötting et al 2004). The owner decided against surgical intervention, because of the potential risk of life-threatening complications, e.g.…”

“…The owner decided against surgical intervention, because of the potential risk of life-threatening complications, e.g. peritonitis or severe hemorrhage, due to removal of the uterus in mares (Santschi et al 1995). Further, genital adhesions causing colic can be detached by laparoscopy (Bartmann et al 2006).…”

“…Pyometra may occur due to cervical abnormalities (Santschi et al 1995). It is usually not accompanied by signs of systemic disease , Murray und Peter 1991, Pycock 2007.…”

Uterine neoplasia in a 14-year old Quarter Horse mare

“…Die Uterusamputation ist vor allem bei Vorliegen chronisch entzündlicher oder neoplastischer Veränderungen erforderlich (Slone 1988, Santschi et al 1995. Uterustumoren werden beim Pferd in benigne (Leiomyome, Fibrome und Adenome) und maligne (Leiomyosarkome, Rhabdomyosarkome und Adenokarzinome) klassifiziert (McCue et al 1998).…”

“…In Einzelfällen wird von der Ovariohysterektomie als therapeutisches Verfahren berichtet. Der chirurgische Eingriff selbst gilt als aufwendig und komplikationsreich (Slone 1988, Santschi et al 1995. Häufige und vor allem lebensbedrohliche Komplikationen sind intrauterine oder intraabdominale Blutungen, Bauchfellentzündungen oder schmerzbedingte Koliken zusätz-lich zum Narkoserisiko.…”