Ovariectomy and ovariosalpingectomy have reasonable outcomes in stable and critical client-owned bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps).

Ovariectomy/ovariosalpingectomy in bearded dragons has improved outcomes with 85% survival to discharge.

This retrospective study evaluated surgical sterilization outcomes in 25 client-owned bearded dragons (26 procedures total) presenting between October 2019 and October 2024. Common presentations included hyporexia (n=15) and coelomic distension (n=8), with 23 procedures classified as urgent. Diagnostic findings frequently showed elevated bile acids and follicles on ultrasound. Anesthetic protocols typically combined dexmedetomidine, ketamine, midazolam, propofol, and isoflurane. Seven animals underwent concurrent procedures including cholecystectomy, liver biopsy, and mass removal. Histologic examination revealed abnormal ovarian findings in 8 of 14 cases, predominantly oophoritis. Intraoperative hemorrhage was the most common complication (n=11). Despite complications, 85% of cases (22/26) survived to discharge and at least 10 days postoperatively, substantially improving upon previously reported outcomes. These findings demonstrate that ovariectomy and ovariosalpingectomy are viable surgical options in bearded dragons with reasonable prognosis, supporting their consideration for multiple clinical indications including reproductive pathology management.

This summary was distilled by AI and may occasionally misinterpret data. Confirm critical details with the primary literature before clinical application.