Laparoscopic Castration Using Bipolar Forceps vs. Orchiectomy in Dogs: A Comparison of Two Techniques

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Castration of dogs is one of the most often performed surgeries in veterinary medicine. Minimally invasive techniques used in human medicine are now being used in animals. We compared the feasibility and effects on pain and inflammation of a new laparoscopic technique with the classical castration technique. The animals in which the new technique was applied showed less pain and inflammation then the other group. Our results suggest that this is a feasible alternative to classical castration. ABSTRACT: This paper aimed to study the feasibility of a new laparoscopic castration technique in male dogs, evaluate the pain associated with it, and compare it with the classical orchiectomy. Surgical times, pain scores, blood and salivary cortisol, and CRP were recorded and compared between the two groups. The use of high-frequency bipolar forceps allowed quick and uneventful laparoscopic procedures. The laparoscopic group had significantly lower pain scores, cortisol, and PCR values than the orchiectomy group. No complications were seen in any group. Our results suggest that this laparoscopic castration is a safe and beneficial surgical alternative to traditional orchiectomy in dogs.