Laparoscopic ovariectomy provides favourable peri- and postoperative outcomes compared with ovariohysterectomy via celiotomy in bitches

Abstract

Objectives: To investigate the peri- and postoperative outcomes for bitches neutered via laparoscopic ovariectomy or open ovariohysterectomy (celiotomy). Materials and Methods: Retrospective data were obtained for 519 bitches neutered in UK Veterinary Practices (VP) by either laparoscopic ovariectomy (LAP-OVE, n = 213, performed at VP1) or ovariohysterectomy by celiotomy (OVH-CEL, n = 306, performed at VP1-4). Data for complications in the perioperative and postoperative periods were compared for LAP-OVE, all OVH-CEL, and VP1 OVH-CEL (providing a comparison between procedures at the same practice). Differences in surgery duration were examined using generalised linear mixed models. Results: There was no significant difference in surgery duration between LAP-OVE surgeries and all OVH-CEL surgeries, or VP1 OVH-CEL surgeries. Intraoperative complications were reported for 2.3% of LAP-OVE, 2.9% of all OVH-CEL and 1.7% of VP1 OVH-CEL surgeries. Postoperative complications prior to being discharged were reported for 0.5% of LAP-OVE, 1.0% of all OVH-CEL and 0% of VP1 OVH-CEL surgeries. There were fewer LAP-OVE than OVH-CEL bitches with redness or swelling of the wound site in the postoperative period (16.3% LAP-OVE, 36.6% all OVH-CEL and 43.1% of VP1 OVH-CEL surgeries). Complications in the postoperative period that required veterinary attention were reported for 12.9% of LAP-OVE, 16.3% of all OVH-CEL and 24.0% of VP1 OVH-CEL bitches. Inappetence, discomfort and uncharacteristic licking or chewing of parts of the body were observed in fewer bitches following laparoscopic ovariectomy than following ovariohysterectomy by celiotomy. Clinical Significance: The findings provide evidence to support the contention that postoperative complications, including those related to wound healing and those requiring further veterinary intervention, are lower following laparoscopic than open neutering surgeries in bitches.