ENDOSCOPIC OVARIOHYSTERECTOMY IN 2 LIONS (PANTHERA-LEO)

Endoscopic techniques were used to ovariohysterectomize two hybrid Asi an lions (Panthera leo) in order to reduce the risk of postoperative w ound complications associated with standard surgical techniques. One o f the lions was aged, overweight, and considered an anesthetic risk. T he animals were anesthetized, intubated, catheterized intravenously, a nd placed in dorsal recumbency with the head lower (Trendelenburg posi tion). Ventilation was assisted mechanically. Following abdominal insu fflation, a surgical trocar was placed in the abdominal cavity. Two ad ditional 12-mm surgical trocars were placed under direct visualization using a videoscope. The ovaries and uterus were removed endoscopicall y, and the abdominal cavity was inspected for hemorrhage under decreas ed insufflation pressure before closure. The surgery was complicated b y obesity, by uterine enlargement from cystic endometrial hyperplasia and endometrial polyps, and by ovarian enlargement and fragility becau se of bilateral cystic rete ovarii. The procedure and anesthetic recov ery were uneventful. Postsurgical recovery time and convalescence last ed less than 3 days, and the animals were reintroduced to an exhibit m ate and placed on exhibit within 8 days. The technique is appropriate for use in lions, even those with pathologic reproductive changes, in zoos.