Comparison of peritoneal fluid values after laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy using a vessel-sealing device (Ligasure™) versus a ligating loop and removal of the descended testis.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of unilateral laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy and removal of the descended testis on peritoneal fluid values, and to compare effect between 2 methods for cryptorchid testis vessel hemostasis.

STUDY DESIGN

Randomized clinical study.

ANIMALS

Stallions (n = 10) with unilateral abdominal cryptorchid testis.

METHODS

During standing laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy, blood vessels within the mesorchium of the cryptorchid testis were either sealed and transected with the LigaSure Atlas™ or 2 ligating loops were placed proximal to the testis and the tissue transected with laparoscopic scissors. The testis was removed through the body wall. After laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy, stallions were anesthetized and the descended testis was removed using a closed technique leaving the scrotal incision open. Abdominocenteses were performed before surgery, and 24, and 72 hours after surgery.

RESULTS

Values for peritoneal total nucleated cell count (TNCC), total protein concentration (TP), and red blood cell count (RBCC) were all elevated at 24 and 72 hours when compared with baseline. Median TNCC for LigaSure™ (59,780 cells/μL) was nearly twice that of the ligating loop (32,880 cells/μL) at 24 hours postoperatively. There was no statistically significant difference in TNCC, TP, or RBCC between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

TNCC, TP, and RBCC increase appreciably from baseline 24 hours after laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy and closed castration but are markedly reduced by 72 hours.