Evaluation of a pinhole castration technique in ponies: Comparing single with double ligation (using silk or catgut) of the spermatic cord

Abstract

SummaryThe objective of the study was to evaluate a pinhole castration technique in male ponies. Adult ponies (n = 12) were randomly allotted to one of the two equal groups. Both of the groups were anaesthetised with xylazine–ketamine–diazepam and had single (SLS, SLC) ligation of the spermatic cord on one side and double (DLS, DLC) ligation on the other side using silk (Group T1) and catgut (Group T2). Single ligation whether using silk or catgut (SLS and SLC) was completed in 3.50 ± 0.34 min. DLS took 6.66 ± 0.49 min and DLC 7.16 ± 0.47 min. Scrotal oedema was noticed in all of the ponies from Day 1 to Day 15. The scrotal circumference and testicular volume in animals of both of the groups showed a significant (P<0.05) increase from Day 1 to Day 4. Orchiectomy to recover testicular remnants was performed in all of the animals on Day 41. Straw‐coloured fluid accumulation was noticed in seven testicular remnants (4 T1 and 3 T2). One testicle from Group DLS showed suppuration. Multiple gross and histological abnormalities were detected in all double ligated testes. The changes were more severe in the DLS than the DLC group and their epididymis (n = 3) also showed necrosis, fibroplasia and an obstructed lumen. Severe adhesions had developed in three and one testicle only from the SLS and SLC groups respectively. The remaining testes and epididymis in both of these groups showed only mild‐to‐moderate adhesions. From this study, it was concluded that castration may not be achieved by percutaneous single ligation of the spermatic cord in ponies. Although double ligation induces marked gross and histopathological changes, assessments of the testosterone levels and sperm analysis are required before recommending this procedure. Use of silk for ligation of the spermatic cord is advantageous over catgut but maintenance of strict asepsis is mandatory.