Abstract:
Several small, enclosed reserves in southern Africa are experiencing significant elephant population
growth, which has resulted in associated environmental damage and changes in biodiversity. Although several
techniques exist to control elephant populations, e.g., culling, relocation, and immunocontraception, the
technique of laparoscopic vasectomy of free-ranging bull elephants was investigated. Bilateral vasectomies were
performed in 45 elephants. Of these elephants, one died within 24 hr of recovery and two had complications during
surgery but recovered uneventfully. Histologic examination confirmed the resected tissue as ductus deferens in all
the bulls. Most animals recovered uneventfully and showed no abnormal behavior after surgery. Complications
recorded included incisional dehiscence, 1 full-thickness and 2 partial-thickness lacerations of the large intestine,
and initial sling-associated complications, for example, deep radial nerve paresis. One bull was found dead 6 weeks
after surgery without showing any prior abnormal signs. Vasectomy in free-ranging African bull elephants may be
effectively performed in their normal environment. The surgical procedure can be used as a realistic population
management tool in free-ranging elephants without major anesthetic, surgical, or postoperative complications.
