ovariohysterectomy

Ovariohysterectomy is a surgical procedure that removes both ovaries and the uterus. In veterinary medicine, it is the standard method of sterilization for female dogs and cats and is commonly called spaying. In human medicine the term is used less often; the equivalent procedure is hysterectomy with bilateral oophorectomy.

Indications include permanent sterilization, prevention or treatment of uterine diseases such as pyometra, and removal of reproductive organs in cases of ovarian or uterine neoplasia. In dogs and cats, performing an ovariohysterectomy before multiple heat cycles reduces the risk of mammary tumors.

Procedure involves general anesthesia and typically a ventral midline abdominal approach. The ovaries are detached by ligating the ovarian pedicles, then the uterus and uterine horns are removed. Hemostasis is confirmed and the incision is closed in layers. The exact technique can vary by species and surgeon, and laparoscopic ovariohysterectomy is increasingly used in small animals.

Postoperative care includes pain management, monitoring for complications, activity restriction, and keeping the incision clean and dry. Most patients recover within 10 to 14 days, with gradual return to normal activity as healing allows.

Risks include standard surgical and anesthesia risks such as bleeding and infection, as well as wound complications. Long-term considerations in companion animals may include changes in metabolism leading to weight gain and, in some breeds, urinary incontinence after spaying. The procedure eliminates heat cycles and the ability to become pregnant.