Stories: Turtle spay (oophorectomy)

Dr David spayed last week a red eared slider. "Steve", as she is name, has been having a lot of reproductive problems. Finally, after two months of retained eggs, the owner elected to have her fixed. In mature females, this can be done through the femoral fossa, which allows a successful surgery without having to break through the plastron (shell).

"Steve" was first sedated and then prepared for surgery. An endotracheal tube was placed to assist with ventilation and the delivery of anesthetic gas.

The surgery was performed with the use of an endoscope. An endoscope allows direct access to the coelomic cavity (abdomen) and permit easy visualization of the different organs. With the use of a non traumatic forceps, the ovaries were then exteriorized and removed.

The two ovaries were successfully removed.

"Steve" is now recovering and enjoying again the sunshine and the great days ahead.