New Castration Technique May Reduce Complications
An Iranian group of researchers have published research detailing their work using a new castration technique. The technique, called section-ligation-release (SLR) leaves the testicles inside the scrotum, but renders the stallion sterile in the same was as a standard castration.
The procedure is performed via small incisions in the scrotum, a few minutes of manipulation of the spermatic cords, and the closing of the wounds on the scrotum. The oxygen starved testes slowly shrivel into benign fibrous masses, and the gelding’s blood testosterone levels fall to that of a gelding castrated using standard techniques within 2 months.
Dr Saifzadeh, leader of the research group said “The new technique reduces the risk of postoperative bleeding and severe swelling at the incision sites or in the prepuce, which are common complications of standard castrations. Risks of parasite and bacterial infections are also reduced in the SLR technique”.
SLR operations would have to be carefully documented in the animal’s passport for the purpose of differentiating between SLR geldings and stallions.
