Removing the very large ovary

The most common indication for ovariectomy in the mare is removal of granulosa cell tumours. When these tumours remain undiagnosed for prolonged periods they may grow to a considerable size within the abdomen making surgical removal quite a challenge. Large flank incisions increase surgical time for closure and increase the risk of complications during wound healing (seroma formation, wound dehiscence, infection) that may lead to a diminished cosmetic result. Flank incisions might also lead to depreciation in high-level sport and racehorses. Laparoscopy and laparoscopic-assisted techniques remain the gold standard for removal of such large ovaries and some techniques and strategies have been described that reduce the size of the ovary and remove it, providing benefits to mares afflicted with this condition ...