Laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy using a resorbable self-locking loop device in dorsally recumbent horses.

Objective: To report the use and feasibility of a self-locking resorbable loop device for cryptorchidectomy.

Study Design: Clinical prospective study.

Population: Twenty horses.

Methods: Horses suspected to have an abdominal testicle/s after admission work-up were enrolled. Horses were anesthetized in dorsal recumbency and a standard laparoscopic technique was performed. The looped device was inserted into the abdomen, glided around the testis/cord and tightened. Then, the spermatic cord was transected prior testis removal. Surgical procedure details and remarks, perioperative complications and total surgical time were recorded. Short- (>3 weeks) and long-term (>6 months) follow-ups were obtained by telephone questionnaire.

Results: Median total surgical time was 67 min (range: 43-189 min) and significantly shortened after the first four horses. The loop device was easily glided around 13/20 abdominal testes and required more time and technical skills around larger testes (≥3 years). Excellent intraoperative hemostasis was achieved in 17 horses. Three horses demonstrated mild intraoperative bleeding that required retightening, device replacement or adding a second device, respectively. Three horses developed mild postoperative hemoabdomen identified ultrasonographically and were successfully managed medically. Follow-up revealed no significant complications related to the procedure. One horse was euthanized for colic 4 months after surgery and one died of hemolytic shock 17 months postoperatively.

Conclusion: This device represents another method to perform equine cryptorchidectomy that requires minimal training and laparoscopic expertise but demands knowledge of the device and application to prevent complications.

Clinical Significance: Laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy using this device is an alternative technique for horses <3 years.