Internal inguinal ring closure by laparoscopy using homologous pericardium grafts in horses

ABSTRACT: The occlusion of inguinal ring is the treatment to avoid the inguinal hernia in horses. The aim of this study is evaluate the efficacy of homologous pericardium grafts for internal inguinal ring closure in horses, comparing mechanical or manual laparoscopic suture. Cross over study, using six healthy intact male Mangalarga breed horses aged between 3 and 12 years. Horses were operated under general anesthesia in 25º Trendelenburg position. Five laparoscopic portals were employed. Pericardium grafts measuring 4x5cm were anchored covering the left and right internal inguinal rings using either manual intracorporeal suture or laparoscopic stapler. Horses were followed-up during 11 weeks when were submitted to a laparoscopic control. Surgical time, trans and postoperative complications and effectiveness of internal inguinal closure were evaluated and statistically analyzed. The level of significance was set at 5% P