Our Summary

This study discusses the successful treatment of a female chimpanzee that had uterine bleeding. The 29-year-old chimp had conditions known as adenomyosis and/or endometriosis, which were discovered through ultrasound and CT scans. Before surgery, a urinary catheter was used to ensure the bladder didn’t interfere with the operation. The procedure conducted was a 3-portal laparoscopic hysterectomy, which is a minimally invasive surgery to remove the uterus. A specific tool called VCare was used to handle the uterus safely and efficiently during the operation, while another tool called Ligasure was used to effectively seal blood vessels and minimize bleeding. The entire procedure took about 150 minutes, and there were no complications. The removed uterus was examined and confirmed the prior diagnoses. After the operation, the chimp recovered well and returned to its normal behavior without further uterine bleeding five months after the surgery. This shows that this type of surgery can be successfully performed on chimpanzees.

FAQs

  1. What was the condition that led to the chimpanzee requiring a laparoscopic hysterectomy?
  2. What tools were used during the chimpanzee’s laparoscopic hysterectomy and what were their functions?
  3. How long did the chimpanzee’s recovery period take after the laparoscopic hysterectomy?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about laparoscopic hysterectomy is to follow post-operative instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery. This may include avoiding heavy lifting, taking prescribed pain medication as needed, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and staying active can help promote healing and prevent complications. It’s important to communicate any concerns or unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.

Suitable For

Laparoscopic hysterectomy is typically recommended for patients with conditions such as uterine fibroids, endometriosis, adenomyosis, abnormal uterine bleeding, chronic pelvic pain, pelvic organ prolapse, and certain types of cancer, such as endometrial or cervical cancer. It may also be recommended for patients who have not responded to other treatments such as medication or minimally invasive procedures. This minimally invasive surgery is generally preferred for patients who desire a quicker recovery time, less pain, and minimal scarring compared to traditional open surgery.

Timeline

  • Pre-surgery:
  1. Patient experiences symptoms such as uterine bleeding, pelvic pain, and other gynecological issues.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as ultrasound and CT scans to identify the underlying condition (adenomyosis and/or endometriosis).
  3. Urinary catheter is used to prepare for surgery and ensure bladder does not interfere with the operation.
  • Surgery:
  1. 3-portal laparoscopic hysterectomy is performed using minimally invasive techniques.
  2. Tools such as VCare and Ligasure are used to safely handle the uterus and seal blood vessels, respectively.
  3. Procedure takes approximately 150 minutes with no complications.
  4. Removed uterus is examined to confirm diagnoses of adenomyosis and/or endometriosis.
  • Post-surgery:
  1. Patient recovers well and returns to normal behavior without uterine bleeding.
  2. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor recovery and ensure no complications arise.
  3. Patient’s quality of life improves as symptoms of uterine bleeding and pelvic pain are alleviated.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a laparoscopic hysterectomy?
  2. What is the expected recovery time and post-operative care plan for a laparoscopic hysterectomy?
  3. How will a laparoscopic hysterectomy affect my future fertility and hormone levels?
  4. Are there any alternative treatment options for my condition that I should consider before proceeding with surgery?
  5. How experienced are you in performing laparoscopic hysterectomies, and what is your success rate with this procedure?
  6. Will I need to stay in the hospital overnight after the surgery, or is it typically done on an outpatient basis?
  7. What should I expect in terms of pain management and discomfort following the procedure?
  8. How long will it take for me to resume normal activities and return to work after a laparoscopic hysterectomy?
  9. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions that I should take after the surgery to promote a successful recovery?
  10. How will the removal of my uterus impact my overall health and well-being in the long term?

Reference

Authors: Sarvi JY, Gardhouse SM, Berke KA, Weber RL, Hiebert K, Whittaker JH, Kapaldo N. Journal: Vet Surg. 2022 Oct;51(7):1167-1174. doi: 10.1111/vsu.13856. Epub 2022 Jul 28. PMID: 35899397