Ovine Prep and Positioning

Presenter: Daniel Turner, CBSET, Inc.

Introduction: We do not often discuss or present on the intricacies of working with ruminants in a surgical research setting. These animals can be difficult to handle, and even more difficult to get into proper position to ensure the success of the animal’s surgery and recovery. This portion of the larger sheep track will act as general guidance for preparation as well as give some more in-depth suggestions on specific procedure positioning of these animals.

Methods: When it comes to preparation of our patients for surgery and their positioning on the surgical table, we often follow the same pattern for any animal. We need to induce, catheterize, intubate, prep the surgical site(s), and then get the animal situated on the surgical table. This simplification allows us to be efficient but does not account for species specific or procedure specific considerations that can be vital to the success of the procedure and to a successful recovery for our patients. This refresher will give guidance on some of these considerations and how they have been effective for our patients and their procedures.

Results: The specific procedures we will be discussing during this presentation came with their own challenges for animal preparation and positioning. What oftentimes seems like the simplest of steps, placing the animal on the surgical table, can influence the surgical procedure and, subsequently, the result for our animals. Positioning can have a dramatic effect on the surgeon’s ability to perform their procedure. Delays due to repositioning can lead to extended table time. By taking the time to troubleshoot our positioning in a collaborative manner prior to beginning a procedure, we were able to optimize our process and achieve better outcomes for our animals and our studies.

Conclusion: In summary, reviewing species specific considerations and procedure specific considerations for the preparation and positioning of our animals in crucial. Collaboration among the surgical team on these items is a vital part of ensuring we achieve our goal of procedural success and a smooth recovery for our patient.