Laparoscopy in zoological medicine.

The technique of laparoscopy was adapted and utilized in zoological medicine for various mammals, birds, and reptiles for reproductive and diagnostic studies as well as clinically related research. It was concluded that since anesthesia was routinely required for most manipulative procedures in zoo animals, and since laparoscopy adds little additional risk, the use of this technique provides an additional diagnostic aid when indicated. Laparoscopy was found to be effective for evaluating reproductive status, particularly ovarian anatomy and function, direct visual biopsy of internal organs, sex determination in selected birds, and as a surgical means of fertility control.