Successful pregnancies in a mare after laparoscopic unilateral ovariohysterectomy

Abstract

A 6 year old Thoroughbred mare was presented for investigation of infertility. Over 3
consecutive seasons, she had been bred naturally (14 controlled estrous cycles) with 3 Thoroughbred
stallions and did not become pregnant. The mare was bred artificially over 3 estrous cycles with
semen from a Quarter horse stallion (known for excellent fertility). Both ovaries appeared functional.
During embryo collection on day 7 postovulation, failure of appropriate dilation of left uterine horn
was noticed after embryo collecting medium was infused. Diagnostic hysteroscopy was performed
and partial patency defect of the left uterine horn was identified. After sedation and local anesthesia, a
unilateral laparoscopic ovariohysterectomy was performed while the mare was standing.
Approximately 80% of the left uterine horn was removed using a vasculature sealing device to
provide hemostasis and intracorporeal suturing technique was used for uterine closure. Subsequently,
the mare became pregnant and foaled twice.