SURGICAL CASTRATION OF THE ELEPHANT (ELEPHAS MAXIMUS AND LOXODONTA AFRICANA)

Abstract

The purpose of this project was to develop a reliable, safe, and efficient technique for surgical castration of the elephant (Elephas maximus and Loxodonta africana). To achieve this, there have been several modifications in surgical technique. Initially, sterilization by injecting caustic agents into the testicles via laparotomy was attempted, but results were unpredictable and had serious side effects. Castration of young males under 5 yr of age was relatively easy using a standard equine chain ecraseur through a single laparotomy incision. For larger males, most cases required two laparotomy incisions with several variations in techniques for removal of the testicles. Initially, self-locking stainless steel bands were placed on the cord as ligatures, and the testicles were removed with an obstetrical wire saw. Because of technical difficulties, this method was abandoned, and an alternative technique was developed. The testicle was removed with an obstetrical wire saw, and then the artery was isolated by digital palpation. A Kelly forceps was secured on the vessel. The forceps was passed through a loop of an equine chain ecraseur and the chain positioned over the artery. The ecraseur was then closed, crushing the vessel. Currently, the most promising technique is the development of a large chain ecraseur that will allow removal of both testicles through a single