Introduction

Treatment of ovarian remnant syndrome (ORS) in dogs usually necessitates large celiotomy incisions and considerable manipulation of organs. In women, laparoscopic treatment of ORS is successful and has significant advantages over laparotomy.

Objectives

To describe and evaluate a minimally invasive approach to remove ovarian remnants in dogs.

Methods

Thirty-one client-owned dogs diagnosed with ORS were treated by a 3-portal laparoscopic approach. Adhesiolysis and excision of tissue was facilitated using LigaSure electrosurgery forceps. Treatment success was confirmed by histology of excised tissue and long-term follow-up. In addition, 14 dogs underwent GnRH-stimulation tests to verify postoperative absence of ovarian remnants.

Results

Mean surgery duration was 107 ± 33 minutes. Adhesions were noted in 78% of dogs. All dogs had histologically confirmed excision of ovarian remnants. Twenty-two dogs had ovarian remnants excised from the right side only, 3 dogs from the left side only, 5 dogs from both sides, and 1 dog from a uterine horn. None of the dogs had recurrence of symptoms after a median follow-up of 19 months and all results of GnRH-stimulation tests confirmed absence of ovarian tissue. Mean recovery time was 1.5 days and was related to surgery duration. No major complications occurred. Mild intraoperative hemorrhage occurred in 12%, causing prolonged surgery duration. Trendelenburg position and lateral tilting of the patient were essential for access to ovarian remnants. Extensive adhesions made surgery more difficult.

Conclusion

ORS in dogs can be treated effectively using a laparoscopic approach.