Surgical treatment of preovulatory follicular stasis in a Hermann's tortoise with central plastronotomy: A case report

An 8-year-old female Hermann's tortoise (Testudo hermanni) was presented to our clinic with a three-month history of anorexia and lethargy. A diagnostic evaluation was performed, including a complete blood count (CBC), serum biochemistry analysis, and radiographic, ultrasonographic, and computed tomography (CT) imaging. Based on these findings, preovulatory follicular stasis was diagnosed. Surgical intervention was planned using a central plastronotomy approach. The procedure was performed under general anaesthesia, and all retained follicles were successfully removed from the coelomic cavity. The plastron was repositioned and stabilized using titanium mini-plates and screws. The patient was discharged on the same day, regained voluntary appetite by the third postoperative day, and exhibited progressive recovery over a one-year follow-up period.