The goal of this study was to compare the laparoscopic procedure for ovariohysterectomy (OVH) with the conventional approach. Parameters such as duration of the surgery, complications (hemorrhages, visceral and vascular lesions), technical difficulties and the extending incision required for removing internal organs were evaluated during the intra-operative phase. The costs of both approaches were compared as well. A total of thirty non-defined breed bitches weighting between 6,5 and 19,0kg were randomly distributed into two groups of 15 animals each. Group I was subjected to laparoscopic OVH and group II to the conventional approach. The duration of the surgery was longer and the degree of bleeding was lesser in the laparoscopy than in the conventional approach. Splenic lesions were observed in three animals due to the use of Veress needle or trocar. Extension of the original incision was required in both groups to remove uterus and ovaries. Conversion of the technique was not indicated. In conclusion, both approaches are safe and efficient for OVH in bitches. The surgical time was larger and the occurrence of hemorrhage was less intense with the laparoscopic procedure. Surgical costs were higher with the laparoscopy.
laparoscopy; ovariohysterectomy; bitch
