Evaluation of a motorized morcellator for laparoscopic removal of granulosa-theca cell tumors in standing mares.

OBJECTIVE

To describe a motorized morcellator technique for laparoscopic removal of granulosa-theca cell tumors (GCT) in standing mares and to evaluate long-term outcome.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series.

ANIMALS

Mares (n=7) aged 4-15 years, with unilateral GCT.

METHODS

Tumor size was determined by transrectal palpation and ultrasonography. Standing sedated mares had 3 laparoscopic portal sites in the paralumbar fossa. After laparoscopic observation of the GCT, the mesovarium was desensitized, the ovarian pedicle transected with a LigaSure device, and the ovary grasped with forceps and cut in cylindrical tissue blocks using a motorized morcellator. Tissue blocks were removed through the laparoscopic sleeve. Outcome was determined by telephone interview of owners 6-40 months after surgery.

RESULTS

Estimated ultrasonographic median GCT diameter was 17 cm (range, 10-22 cm). Surgical time was 2-4.5 hours. There were no surgical complications. Two mares had mild subcutaneous emphysema at the portals after surgery. Convalescence was short, owners were satisfied with cosmetic outcome, and clinical signs associated with GCT did not recur.

CONCLUSION

The motorized morcellator allows piecemeal removal of large GCT through a relatively small laparoscopic portal. Surgical complications were rare and the cosmetic outcome is favorable.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

A motorized morcellator is a safe and minimally invasive technique for laparoscopic removal of GCT in mares.