Video-assisted ovarian sterilization by occluding the vascular supply with a modified Miller's knot and performing bilateral partial excision of the ovaries in the red-eared slider turtle (Trachemys scripta elegans)

Abstract

This study evaluated the efficacy of a video-assisted sterilization technique in red-eared slider turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans), using a modified Miller's knot to occlude ovarian blood vessels, combined with bilateral partial excision of the ovaries and follicles through the prefemoral fossa. A total of 22 adult female turtles, aged between 3 and 6 years, were included. The animals originated from two facilities-11 from a wildlife research center and 11 from a zoo-but were later classified into two groups based on their reproductive condition. Group P (n = 14) comprised animals with reproductive pathologies identified by diagnostic imaging and confirmed intraoperatively, while Group H (n = 8) included clinically healthy individuals. Imaging results were used for surgical planning and postoperative monitoring. All animals underwent reversible multimodal anesthesia, and surgical times were recorded. At 90, 120, and 150 days postoperatively, second surgical interventions were performed to remove the residual ovarian tissue for histological analysis. Histopathological evaluation at 90 days revealed necrosis, atretic follicles, and inflammatory cell infiltration. At 120 days, connective tissue remodeling, inflammation, and loss of original tissue architecture were observed. By 150 days, mineralized follicular structures, tissue repair, and scar formation were evident. Immunophenotyping using a polyclonal rat anti-estrogen receptor type 2 antibody (Dako Agilent®) showed low expression, indicating reduced hormonal stimulation. These findings demonstrate that the video-assisted sterilization technique with ovarian occlusion is effective for Trachemys scripta elegans.