Evaluation of completeness of resection of the glandular portion of the uterus with hysterectomy in dogs – A pilot study

Abstract

Gonadectomies are the most commonly performed surgical procedures in dogs. The benefits and risks associated with gonadectomy in dogs have been broadly investigated. Due to concerns associated with ovariectomy, some pet-owners and veterinarians are considering surgical alternatives which terminate the capacity for reproduction without removal of the gonads to preserve functions of the gonadal hormones. The objective of this study was to determine the feasibility of complete resection of the glandular portion of the uterus with hysterectomy (HE). Using a prospective cadaveric and an ex-vivo design, uterine resection was performed cranially and caudally to the cervix, and at the proper ligament to simulate routine ovariohysterectomy and HE. Using microscopic evaluation procedures, there was identification of glandular tissue at the surgical margin of all samples resected cranially to the cervix and no glandular tissue in the samples resected caudally to the cervix. Half of the samples from the uterine horns contained glandular tissue. The results of the present study indicate ligation and transection of the uterus caudally to the cervix (as recommended for HE) allows for complete resection of glandular tissues, however, transection at the proper ligament may not. The clinical relevance of retention of para-ovarian uterine glandular tissue is unknown. Additional research is needed where there is investigation of the consequences and surgical technique for HE before there is widespread clinical use of this procedure.