Single-port video-assisted laparoscopic ovariohysterectomy using operative endoscope or SILS™ device in dogs

Over the last few years, minimally invasive surgery has gained increasing recognition in various veterinary fields because of its advantages over conventional surgery. This progress has stimulated the development of new instruments with potential applications in veterinary medicine. This randomized controlled study was performed to evaluate two different single-port techniques for performing video-assisted ovariohysterectomy in female dogs, comparing them with the conventional approach. Thirty female dogs (n = 30) were evaluated and divided into 3 groups of 10 animals each: ovariohysterectomy by celiotomy, video-assisted laparoscopic ovariohysterectomy using a single-port operative endoscope, and laparoscopic ovariohysterectomy using the single-incision laparoscopic surgery device. The mean surgical time, complications, postoperative pain levels, and serum levels of C-reactive protein and interleukin-6 were assessed. Both video-assisted techniques demonstrated high feasibility and satisfactory clinical outcomes, although minor complications were observed (4 in the operative endoscope group and 3 in the single-incision laparoscopic surgery device group). The interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein levels peaked earlier, at 12 and 24 h postoperatively, respectively. The higher pain scores observed in animals undergoing ovariohysterectomy by celiotomy indicate that pain in ovariohysterectomy procedures is directly related to visceral manipulation and traction of the ovarian pedicle.