Use of a cost‐effective specimen retrieval bag for canine laparoscopic ovariectomy: a clinical prospective study (2021‐2024)

OBJECTIVES: To assess the feasibility and safety of a cost-effective non-medical plastic bag used as a specimen retrieval bag during laparoscopic ovariectomy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-one client-owned dogs having laparoscopic ovariectomy with a non-medical specimen retrieval bag were prospectively enrolled. A disposable liner for baby feeding bottles was used as a specimen retrieval bag. Each bag cost $1.3. Incision enlargement, surgical and retrieval times, retrieval easiness score, size of specimens, surgeon's status (resident or diplomate) and complications were recorded. Owner-assessed comfort score of their dogs and owners' satisfaction score were collected at 2 weeks postoperatively. RESULTS: The mean surgical time was 45.6 ± 13.4 minutes, and the mean retrieval time was 6.2 ± 4.4 minutes. The mean size of the specimens was 31.4 ± 19.2 mm. The median retrieval easiness score was 8.0 (IQR = 8.0 to 10.0) and was significantly lower for residents than diplomates (median difference = -1). Incision enlargement was required in three cases. Three minor intraoperative complications occurred. The median owner-assessed comfort score was 9.0 (IQR = 7.5 to 10.0) and the median owners' satisfaction score was 10.0 (IQR = 9.0 to 10.0). CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Use of a sterilized non-medical plastic bag as specimen retrieval bag for canine laparoscopic ovariectomy was easy with limited minor complications, and excellent dogs' comfort and owners' satisfaction. It may be a suitable cost-effective alternative to commercial specimen retrieval bags for use in canine laparoscopic ovariectomy.