Horizontal right dorsolateral approach to ovariohysterectomy in a guinea pig ( Cavia porcellus ) with bilateral cystic ovarian disease

Abstract

The guinea pig ( Cavia porcellus ) is a small rodent commonly kept as a companion animal in exotic pet practice, with reproductive disorders that commonly affect entire females. Among these, ovarian cysts are particularly prevalent in middle‐aged to older animals. This case report describes the use of a right horizontal dorsolateral approach for ovariohysterectomy in a 4‐year‐old, entire, female American guinea pig diagnosed with bilateral ovarian cysts after presenting with abdominal distension and pain on dorsal abdominal palpation during routine clinical evaluation. Ultrasonography revealed bilateral, thin‐walled, non‐lobulated cystic structures consistent with ovarian cysts. Ovariohysterectomy was performed through a right craniocaudal flank incision to enhance visualisation of the ovarian pedicle and ipsilateral renal pole while minimising visceral manipulation, and no intraoperative complications were observed. Postoperative recovery was uneventful, and long‐term follow‐up demonstrated complete resolution of clinical signs without recurrence, highlighting the anatomical and technical advantages of this surgical approach.