Standing laparoscopic abdominal lavage in 2 horses with peritonitis

In these two cases laparoscopic guided lavage was an effective way to deal with primary bacterial peritonitis after failure of after regular lavage systems failed.
DrO

Standing laparoscopic abdominal lavage using a suction-irrigation device in 2 horses with primary suppurative peritonitis
Can Vet J. 2021 Apr;62(4):397-402.
Authors
Nicola C Cribb 1 , Luis G Arroyo 1 , Ludovic Bouré 1
Affiliation

1 Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1.

Abstract
in English, French

The use of a laparoscopic suction-irrigation device in 2 standing horses for lavage of the abdomen for the treatment of primary suppurative peritonitis is reported. Two horses were presented with a 1- to 2-week history of weight loss. Abdominocentesis revealed highly elevated total nucleated cell count. Peritoneal lavage systems were placed in both horses, but complications prevented adequate lavage. Both horses underwent standing laparoscopy; the dorsal abdomen was explored and the abdomen was profusely lavaged, using a suction-irrigation device. The procedure was efficient and allowed adequate visualization of the dorsal abdomen and lavage. A successful outcome was achieved in both cases. Key clinical message: Lavage of the abdomen of horses with peritonitis can be achieved under standing sedation, using a laparoscopic technique. In appropriately selected cases, this allows for adequate visualization of the dorsal abdomen and efficacious abdominal lavage.