Abstract

While the benefits of minimally invasive surgery have been described in many species, little work has been done with laparoscopy in small cetaceans. Advances in instrumentation and anesthesia bring laparoscopy to the brink of utilization in small cetacean diagnostics and treatment. Our cadaveric study evaluated the feasibility of laparoscopic exploration of the small cetacean. The objectives of our study were to describe the laparoscopic anatomy, patient positioning, portal access sites, and to evaluate organ visualization.

Fresh dead (Code 2) Kogia sp. and Tursiops truncatus cadavers presented to the University of Florida's Aquatic Animal Health Program for post mortem scanning and necropsy from regional stranding organizations are included in the study. In the Kogia sp. anatomic limitations made these cetaceans not amenable to laparoscopy. In contrast, Tursiops truncatus anatomy allowed for multiple portal access sites, desirable working space, and easy organ visualization. Both size and age dictated portal placement sites. In smaller, younger animals the linea was more pliable allowing traditional ventral midline portal placement with adequate access to the majority of abdominal viscera. In larger and older animals, constraints on instrument size and body wall pliability required alternative portal placement. Specific sites were defined for the area of the abdomen desired for exploration or for the specific intended procedure. Regardless of patient size or age, the ability to manipulate body position was integral to successful exploration and procedures.

The anatomy of Tursiops truncatus makes exploration and laparoscopic procedures feasible in this species of small cetaceans. Therefore, the potential for minimally invasive diagnostics and surgery exists in these marine mammals.

Acknowledgements

Special thanks to Blair Mase and members of the National Marine Fisheries Service Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Network Southeast Region who have graciously contributed time, energy and cadavers to this project. In particular we would like to thank some of our partners: Nadia Gordon and FWC stranding team, Megan Stolen, Wendy Noke, and Teresa Mazza with Hubbs-Sea World Research Institute Stranding Response Team, Steve Shippe from the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge, and Abby Stone and Hada Herring of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium stranding response team who assisted with preservation and transport of code two specimens to make this project productive.

* Presenting author