Elevating the uterus (uteropexy) of five mares by laparoscopically imbricating the mesometrium.

Abstract

REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY: There is a need for study of a method for restoring a ventrally positioned uterus to a horizontal position involving fertility of mares with delayed uterine clearance. HYPOTHESIS: A ventrally-angled uterus can be elevated to a horizontal position using a laparoscopic technique. OBJECTIVE: To develop a laparoscopic technique of imbricating the mesometria to elevate the uterus to a horizontal position. METHODS: The right and left mesometria of 5 pluriparous mares, all barren for 1-8 years (mean 3.8 years), with a pendulous, ventrally-angled uterus were shortened laparoscopically, by imbrication, with the mares standing, to raise the uterine body and horns to a horizontal position. Sutures were placed through the dorsal aspect of the uterine body and uterine horn and the adjacent region of the mesometrium using a simple continuous suture pattern. RESULTS: The uterus of all 5 mares was elevated successfully to a horizontal position. Three of the mares became pregnant the same year, without other treatment, after the procedure. CONCLUSIONS: A pendulous, ventrally-angled uterus can be returned to a normal, horizontal position by imbricating the mesometria, using a laparoscopic technique. POTENTIAL RELEVANCE: Elevating a ventrally-angled uterus to a horizontal position may improve egress of uterine debris, thereby improving fertility.