ABORDAGEM TÉCNICA COMPARATIVA ENTRE AS ORQUIECTOMIAS ABERTA E FECHADA EM GARANHÕES: um estudo de caso

Abstract

Orchiectomy in stallions is a surgical procedure commonly performed in equine routine, aiming at reproductive control, behavioral management, and improvement of zootechnical systems. This technique is almost exclusively administered using the open and closed methods. Each method has some specific considerations regarding how much structural exposure needs to be achieved, as well as other structural risks and challenges that require analysis before selecting the best option. The present study aimed to discuss and compare the open and closed techniques through a clinical case report carried out in Ituiutaba (MG) on two stallions, analyzing the operative particularities, difficulties experienced, and clinical results. The methodology of this study consisted of a systematic literature review and a case study in Ituiutaba (MG), where both techniques were recorded. Photographs, field notes, and clinical information were examined regarding sedation, anesthesia, preparation, surgical execution, hemostasis, and postoperative care. The studies retrieved were published between 2005 and 2025 and were selected for their scientific relevance to equine castration. Due to immediate access to the vaginal tunic, the open technique, which is applied practically in the field, presented a higher risk of contamination and edema. In contrast, the closed technique showed significantly greater hemostatic safety, reduced risk of infection, improved healing time due to retention of the intact vaginal tunic, and a more controlled operating environment. The images collected were consistent with evidence from the literature on the crucial phases of the procedure. Both procedures are effective; however, the closed technique demonstrated greater safety and recovery data recommended for a controlled environment and for these animals. The open method is a working solution for field testing if applied in a technically disciplined and controlled manner.