"Random" in relation to horses refers to the application of randomization techniques and stochastic processes in equine studies. Randomization is a fundamental aspect of experimental design that helps ensure the reliability and validity of research findings by minimizing bias. In equine research, randomization can be used in various contexts, such as assigning horses to treatment and control groups in clinical trials, selecting subjects for behavioral studies, or determining sampling methods for population surveys. This approach enhances the robustness of study outcomes by ensuring that observed effects are due to the interventions or variables being tested rather than external factors. This page gathers peer-reviewed research studies and scholarly articles that explore the use and impact of randomization methods in equine research, highlighting their application in experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation of results.
Medeiros LQ, Gozalo-Marcilla M, Taylor PM, Campagnol D, de Oliveira FA, Watanabe MJ, de Araujo Aguiar AJ.Dexmedetomidine (DEX) alone, or combined with butorphanol (BUT), may be administered by constant rate infusions (CRIs) in standing horses. This blinded, randomised, crossover study in six healthy adult horses aimed to determine the sedative and cardiopulmonary effects of DEX (dexmedetomidine (3.5 µg/kg+5 µg/kg/hour CRI) and DEX/BUT (dexmedetomidine (3.5 µg/kg+3.5 µg/kg/hour CRI) and butorphanol (20 µg/kg+24 µg/kg/hour CRI)). Head height above ground (HHAG), ataxia, responses to tactile/auditory stimuli and cardiopulmonary variables were recorded before, at 5/15/30/60/90 min...
Muir WW, Ueyama Y, Noel-Morgan J, Kilborne A, Page J.To evaluate the quality of the veterinary literature investigating IV fluid therapy in dogs, cats, horses, and cattle. Methods: Systematic review. Methods: The preferred reporting of items for systematic review and meta-analysis protocols (PRISMA-P) was employed for systematic review of all relevant IV fluid therapy manuscripts published from January 1969 through December 2016 in the Commonwealth Agricultural Bureaux International (CABI) database. Independent grading systems used to evaluate manuscripts included the updated CONsolidated Standards of Reporting Trials 2012 checklist, risk of bia...
Huxford KE, Dart AJ, Perkins NR, Bell R, Jeffcott LB.AIMS To compare the efficacy of an enteric coated esomeprazole paste with an enteric coated omeprazole paste to increase gastric pH after oral administration in horses. METHODS Nine adult Standardbred horses were randomly assigned to three groups, each containing three horses, for a study comprising three phases of 10 days, with an 18-day washout period between each phase. In each phase, three horses received either 0.5 mg/kg esomeprazole, 1 mg/kg omeprazole or a placebo, as an oral paste, once daily for 10 days (Days 0-9). Over the course of study all horses received all three treatments....
Vermöhlen V, Schiller P, Schickendantz S, Drache M, Hussack S, Gerber-Grote A, Pöhlau D.Evidence-based complementary treatment options for multiple sclerosis (MS) are limited. To investigate the effect of hippotherapy plus standard care versus standard care alone in MS patients. A total of 70 adults with MS were recruited in five German centers and randomly allocated to the intervention group (12 weeks of hippotherapy) or the control group. Primary outcome was the change in the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) after 12 weeks, and further outcome measures included fatigue, pain, quality of life, and spasticity. Covariance analysis of the primary endpoint resulted in a mean difference ...
Watts AE, Millar NL, Platt J, Kitson SM, Akbar M, Rech R, Griffin J, Pool R, Hughes T, McInnes IB, Gilchrist DS.Tendon injuries (tendinopathies) are common in human and equine athletes and characterized by dysregulated collagen matrix, resulting in tendon damage. We have previously demonstrated a functional role for microRNA29a (miR29a) as a post-transcriptional regulator of collagen 3 expression in murine and human tendon injury. Given the translational potential, we designed a randomized, blinded trial to evaluate the potential of a miR29a replacement therapy as a therapeutic option to treat tendinopathy in an equine model that closely mimics human disease. Tendon injury was induced in the superficial...
Ness SL, Frye AH, Divers TJ, Rishniw M, Erb HN, Brooks MB.OBJECTIVE To determine effects of oral administration of Yunnan Baiyao on platelet activation, coagulation, and fibrinolysis in healthy horses. ANIMALS 12 healthy adult horses. PROCEDURES In a randomized blinded crossover study that included a 4-week washout period between treatments, horses were orally administered a paste containing Yunnan Baiyao (15 mg/kg) or placebo at 12-hour intervals for 3 days. Blood samples were collected before start of treatment (time 0) and at 24 and 72 hours for a CBC, measurement of fibrinogen concentration, coagulation screening tests, and a panel of assays to a...
Bush J, van den Boom R, Franklin S.Anecdotally, aloe vera is used to treat gastric ulceration, although no studies have yet investigated its efficacy in horses. Objective: To test the hypothesis that aloe vera would be noninferior to omeprazole in the treatment of equine gastric ulcer syndrome. Methods: Randomised, blinded clinical trial. Methods: Forty horses with grade ≥2 lesions of the squamous and/or glandular mucosa were randomly assigned to one of two groups. Horses received either aloe vera inner leaf gel (17.6 mg/kg bwt) b.i.d. or omeprazole (4 mg/kg bwt) s.i.d. for approximately 28 days, after which a repeat gastrosc...
Raidal SL, Andrews FM, Nielsen SG, Trope G.Limited data are available on the relative pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of different omeprazole formulations. Objective: To compare pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects of a novel omeprazole formulation against a currently registered product. Methods: Masked 2 period, 2 treatment crossover. Methods: Twelve clinically healthy horses were studied over two 6-day treatment periods. Horses were randomly assigned to receive a novel omeprazole paste (Ulcershield: ULS) or a currently registered reference omeprazole product (OMO). Gastric pH was measured continuously for 10 h on the day...
Moine S, Flammer SA, de Jesus Maia-Nussbaumer P, Klopfenstein Bregger MD, Gerber V.This study attempted to determine: (1) if degree of dental malocclusion assigned prior to dental treatment was associated with equine rideability, assessed using a standardized score and (2) if performance dentistry improved this score. Methods: Thirty-eight Franches-Montagnes stallions. Methods: All horses were examined and assigned a dental malocclusion score by a veterinary dentist and randomized into two groups: sham treatment (Group S) and performance dentistry including occlusal equilibration (Group D). The horses were ridden twice before and three times after treatment by a professional...
Gozalo-Marcilla M, Luna SP, Crosignani N, Filho JNP, Possebon FS, Pelligand L, Taylor PM.To evaluate intravenous (IV) detomidine with methadone in horses to identify a combination which provides sedation and antinociception without adverse effects. Methods: Randomized, placebo-controlled, blinded, crossover. Methods: A group of eight adult healthy horses aged (mean ± standard deviation) 7 ± 2 years and 372 ± 27 kg. Methods: A total of six treatments were administered IV: saline (SAL); detomidine (5 μg kg; DET); methadone (0.2 mg kg; MET) alone or combined with detomidine [2.5 (MLD), 5 (MMD) or 10 (MHD) μg kg]. Thermal, mechanical and electrical nociceptive thresholds were mea...
Petty JD, Pan Z, Dechant B, Gabriels RL.The unique needs of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have implications for animal welfare. This nested pilot study examined the effects of a randomized trial of 10-week therapeutic horseback riding (THR) intervention versus a no-horse barn activity (BA) control group on children's behaviors with family pets. Sixty-seven (THR = 31; BA = 36) participants with ASD (ages 6-16 years) with one or more family pet, were enrolled from a larger trial ( = 116) following their randomization to intervention groups, stratified by nonverbal intellectual ability. A consistent caregiver comple...
Dunkel B, Pfau T, Fiske-Jackson A, Veres-Nyeki KO, Fairhurst H, Jackson K, Chang YM, Bolt DM.To investigate whether acupuncture can alter gait in horses as assessed by objective and subjective parameters. Methods: Prospective, randomized, singleblinded, crossover study. Methods: Eight adult horses. Methods: Horses were randomly assigned to a treatment (three acupuncture treatments in 8 days) or control group. Subjective and objective gait analyses were performed before and after each treatment and at 1, 3 and 7 days after the last treatment (time-points 1-9, respectively). Horses were assessed at the trot in a straight line on a hard surface and on the lunge on the left and right rein...
Hopster K, Rohn K, Ohnesorge B, Kästner SBR.To compare the effects of controlled mechanical ventilation (CMV) and constant positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) and interposed recruitment manoeuvres (RMs) with those of CMV without PEEP on gas exchange during general anaesthesia and the early recovery period. Methods: Prospective, randomized clinical trial. Methods: A total of 48 Warmblood horses undergoing elective surgery in lateral (Lat) (n = 24) or dorsal (Dors) (n = 24) recumbency. Methods: Premedication (romifidine), induction (diazepam and ketamine) and maintenance (isoflurane in oxygen) were identical in all horses. Groups La...
Bardell D, West E, Mark Senior J.To determine whether the Enterprise point-of-care blood analysis system (EPOC) produces results in agreement with two other blood gas analysers in regular clinical use (i-STAT and Radiometer ABL77) and to investigate the precision of the new machine when used with equine whole blood. Prospective, randomized, non-blinded, comparative laboratory analyser study. Horses admitted to a university teaching hospital requiring arterial or venous blood gas analysis as part of their routine clinical management. One hundred equine blood samples were run immediately, consecutively and in randomized order o...
Duarte PC, Paz CFR, Oliveira APL, Maróstica TP, Cota LO, Faleiros RR.To investigate the nociceptive and clinical effects of buffering a lidocaine-epinephrine solution with sodium bicarbonate in caudal epidural block in mares. Methods: Prospective randomized controlled trial. Methods: Six mixed-breed mares weighing 350-440 kg. Methods: Each animal was administered two caudal epidural injections, 72 hours apart, using different solutions prepared immediately before injection. The control solution was 7 mL 2% lidocaine hydrochloride with epinephrine hemitartrate (1:200,000) added to 3 mL sterile water for injection (pH 2.9). The alkalinized solution was 7 mL o...
Guedes AGP, Tearney CC, Cenani A, Aristizabal F, Nieto J.To compare postanesthetic xylazine and dexmedetomidine on recovery characteristics from sevoflurane anesthesia in horses. Methods: Randomized, crossover study. Methods: Six geldings, mean±standard deviation (SD) (range), 17±4 (11-24) years and 527±80 (420-660) kg. Methods: Horses were anesthetized with sevoflurane for 60 minutes under standardized conditions for a regional limb perfusion study. In recovery, horses were administered either xylazine (200 μg kg) or dexmedetomidine (0.875 μg kg) intravenously. Recoveries were unassisted and were video-recorded for later evaluation of rec...
Rédua MA, Valadão CA, Duque JC, Balestrero LT.To evaluate the pre-emptive analgesic effect of pre-incisional epidural ketamine. Methods: A blinded, randomized experimental study. Methods: Sixteen mixed breed mares, 7.6 ± 2.8 years old, weighing 352 ± 32 kg. Methods: In a pilot study, an incision was made on one lateral thigh using a lidocaine block and no further analgesics, and it was verified that the nociceptive threshold was lower on the incised side than nonincised side (p ≤ 0.05), and that von Frey filaments evoked a pain response. The 16 animals were divided into group A (ketamine, n = 9) and B (saline, n = 7). An epidural cath...
Ramsay EC, Geiser D, Carter W, Tobin T.To compare the effect of orally delivered detomidine on head posture when administered alone or in combination with two different food items, and to determine the serum concentrations of detomidine after oral delivery. Methods: Prospective randomized experimental study. Methods: Fifteen adult grade mares weighing 328-537 kg. Methods: The horses were randomly assigned to one of the three treatment groups (five horses each). The groups were given detomidine (0.06 mg kg): alone; mixed with 3 mL of an apple sauce and gum mixture; or mixed with 3 mL molasses. Head droop, measured before treatment a...
Wagner AE, Mama KR, Steffey EP, Brevard LF, Hellyer PW.To compare behavioral characteristics of induction and recovery in horses anesthetized with eight anesthetic drug protocols. Methods: Randomized prospective experimental study. Methods: Eight horses, 5.5 ± 2.4 years (mean ± SD) of age, and weighing 505 ± 31 kg. Methods: After xylazine pre-medication, each of eight horses was anesthetized on four occasions using one of eight different anesthetic induction protocols which incorporated various combinations of ketamine (KET), propofol (PRO), and thiopental (THIO): THIO 8 mg kg; THIO 6 mg kg + PRO 0.5 mg kg; THIO 4 mg kg + PRO 1 mg kg; THIO 2 mg...
Wright BD, Hildebrand SV.To compare arterial oxygen and carbon dioxide tensions in apneic and spontaneously ventilating horses recovering from anesthesia. Methods: Randomized clinical trial. Methods: Forty-two healthy horses averaging 466 ± 106 kg and 6 ± 5 years of age. Methods: Anesthetized horses undergoing a variety of surgical procedures and receiving positive pressure ventilation (IPPV) were divided into two equal groups. One group was allowed to return to spontaneous ventilation prior to disconnection from the anesthetic circuit (weaned). The other group remained apneic during transport to a recovery stall. A...
Caston SS, Schleining JA, Danielson JA, Kersh KD, Reinertson EL.To determine if instruction using simulated small intestine (SSI) is as effective as using cadaveric small intestine to teach the Gambee suture pattern to second year veterinary students. Methods: Prospective, randomized, blinded study. Methods: Second year veterinary students (n=59). Methods: Students were randomly assigned to groups using SSI or equine cadaver small intestine (CSI) to learn the Gambee suture pattern. The same educator, an experienced surgical instructor, instructed all students. Instruction consisted of verbal description of the technique with a schematic diagram followed by...
Epstein KL, Bergren A, Nie B, Arnold RD, Brainard BM.A lower molecular weight and molar substitution formulation (130/0.4) of hydroxyethyl starch solution has been shown to have a more sustained effect on COP and similar hemodynamic effects as a higher molecular weight and molar substitution formulation (600/0.75) in healthy horses. In humans, these pharmacodynamic characteristics are coupled with more rapid clearance and decreased adverse coagulation effects and accumulation. The objective of this study was to determine and compare the pharmacokinetics of these two formulations in horses. Eight healthy horses were given a 10 mL/kg bolus of eac...
Geburek F, Gaus M, van Schie HT, Rohn K, Stadler PM.Regenerative and anti-inflammatory effects on tendinopathies have been attributed to blood-derived biologicals. To date the evidence for the efficacy of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment of naturally occurring equine tendinopathies is limited. The purpose of this placebo-controlled clinical trial was to describe the effect of a single treatment of equine superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) disease with PRP on clinical and ultrasonographic parameters. Twenty horses with naturally occurring tendinopathies of forelimb SDFTs were randomly assigned to the PRP-treated group (n =...
Silk LN, Greene DA, Baker MK, Jander CB.Engagement in high volumes of physical activity coupled with energy restriction during periods of musculoskeletal development may compromise bone health. Jockeys limit caloric intakes on a weekly basis often from their mid-to-late teens. The aim of this study was to establish whether calcium and vitamin D supplementation would improve bone turnover markers (BTM) and non-weight bearing bone properties of young male jockeys. Methods: A six-month randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial with two groups of apprentice male jockeys was conducted. Methods: Participants (age 20.18±3.23yea...
Gratwick Z, Viljoen A, Page PC, Goddard A, Fosgate GT, Lyle CH.Adverse effects on renal health and haemostasis have been documented in human patients administered hydroxyethyl starches (HESs). Gelatins may represent useful substitutes should similar adverse effects be identified in horses. Objective: To compare the effects of a 4% modified fluid gelatin (MFG) with a 6% (130/0.4) HES on haemodilution, colloid osmotic pressure (COP), haemostasis and renal parameters in healthy ponies. Methods: Randomised crossover experiment. Methods: Three treatments (Treatment A: 10 ml/kg bwt HES; Treatment B: 10 ml/kg bwt MFG; Treatment C: 20 ml/kg bwt MFG) were administ...
Munsterman AS, Kottwitz JJ, Reid Hanson R.To determine the efficacy of adhesion barriers in horses using quantitative statistical analysis. Methods: Meta-analytical review. Methods: A search using PubMed/MEDLINE and Google Scholar was performed, followed by secondary searches of veterinary trade journals, bibliographies of relevant articles, manufacturer websites, and technical reference guides. Randomized experimental trials in healthy horses were considered that included both a treatment and control group. The endpoint required was euthanasia or laparoscopy to identify adhesion formation. A meta-analysis was performed using a random...
Noble GK, Li X, Zhang D, Sillence MN.Tryptophan (TRP) is marketed as a calmative for horses despite reservations about its efficacy. The aim of this study was to measure the effect of oral TRP administration on the reaction speed of horses. Sixty mature horses were used in a two stage randomised, blind, cross-over study, receiving a placebo and an oral dose of TRP (30, 60 or 120 mg/kg body weight), before undergoing a reaction speed test. Blood samples were taken up to 96 h after TRP administration, to identify signs of acute haemolytic anaemia. Plasma TRP concentrations were increased (P <0.001) by the administration of...
Niemelä TM, Tulamo RM, Hielm-Björkman AK.Intra-articular inflammation resulting in lameness is a common health problem in horses. Exogenous intra-articular hyaluronic acid has been shown to provide an analgesic effect and reduce pain in equine and human osteoarthritis. High molecular weight non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid (NASHA) has gained popularity in the treatment of human arthritic conditions due to its long-acting pain-relieving effects. The aim of this study was to compare the response to treatment of lameness localized in the equine metacarpophalangeal joint injected with non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid (NASHA) an...
de Vries A, Pakkanen SA, Raekallio MR, Ekiri A, Scheinin M, Taylor PM, Vainio OM.To investigate the effects of MK-467 on sedation quality, and cardiopulmonary and pharmacokinetic variables in horses sedated intravenously (IV) with romifidine. Methods: Experimental, randomized, crossover design. Methods: Seven healthy mares. Methods: Romifidine (80 μg kg-1 ; R) and MK-467 (200 μg kg-1 ; MK) were administered IV alone and in combination (R + MK). Levels of sedation and borborygmi were scored. Heart rate (HR), direct arterial blood pressure (ABP) and respiratory rate (fR ) were recorded. Arterial and venous blood gas analyses were performed and venous plasma drug conc...
Michanek P, Toth T, Bergström E, Treffenberg-Pettersson H, Bergh A.Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are commonly used for treating a variety of disorders in horses, including wounds. Despite its claim to shorten healing times, there is a lack of scientific documentation regarding its effects. Objective: To investigate if treatment with pulsating visible red light (λ ≈ 637 nm) and near-infrared (NIR) light (λ ≈ 956 nm) affects wound healing. Methods: Randomised blinded controlled experimental study. Methods: A circular skin wound (Ø = 2 cm) was created on each side of the neck in eight healthy horses. One randomly chosen wound received light treatm...
Martin LM, Johnson PJ, Amorim JR, DeClue AE.Resveratrol, a phytophenol, is a commonly used equine nutraceutical supplement touted to exert anti-inflammatory effects. The effect of orally administered resveratrol on tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), leukocyte phagocytic activity or oxidative burst function have not been reported in horses. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of a commercially available, orally administered resveratrol product on innate immune functions in healthy adult horses. Whole blood was collected from 12 horses prior to and following 3 weeks of treatment with either the man...
Wehrman RF, Gemensky-Metzler AJ, Zibura AE, Nyhart AB, Chandler HL.OBJECTIVE To determine the safety of topical administration of 1% atropine ophthalmic solution in healthy horses by objectively measuring gastrointestinal transit time. DESIGN Randomized, masked, controlled crossover study. ANIMALS 6 adult geldings. PROCEDURES Horses were randomly assigned (3/group) to first receive topical treatment of the left eye with 1% atropine or artificial tears solution; the right eye was left untreated. After 24 hours of treatment every 6 hours, 200 nontoxic beads were administered to each horse via nasogastric intubation and treatment frequency was decreased to every...
Kilcoyne I, Dechant JE, Kass PH, Nieto JE.OBJECTIVE To assess incidence of incisional infection in horses following management with 1 of 3 protective dressings after exploratory celiotomy for treatment of acute signs of abdominal pain (ie, colic) and determine the risk of complications associated with each wound management approach. DESIGN Prospective, randomized, controlled study. ANIMALS 85 horses. PROCEDURES Horses were assigned to 3 groups. After standardized abdominal closure, a sterile cotton towel (group 1) or polyhexamethylene biguanide-impregnated dressing (group 2) was secured over the incision site with 4 or 5 cruciate sutu...
Kaya Y, Saka S, Tuncer D.Impaired muscle strength, proprioceptive and vestibular deficits, and orthopedic dysfunction are common disorders associated with Down syndrome (DS). Hippotherapy uses the horses' multidimensional movement to improve posture, balance, and overall function, both motor and sensory. Research evidence supports hippotherapy as an effective, medically recognized intervention for the rehabilitation of gross motor skills. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of hippotherapy on balance, functional mobility, and functional independence in children with DS. Thirty-four children with DS were ...
de Wasseige S, Picotte K, Lavoie JP.A study reported low systemic availability of injectable dexamethasone nebulized to healthy horses using the Flexineb mask. When used in horses with severe asthma and a different nebulizer, lack of efficacy and cortisol suppression were observed. Objective: Nebulized dexamethasone is as effective as PO administration for the treatment of severe asthma in horses. Methods: Twelve horses with severe asthma from a research herd. Methods: Randomized clinical trial. Horses were divided into 2 groups and received 5 mg of dexamethasone sodium phosphate by nebulization using a Flexineb mask (NE, n = 6)...
Lavín-Pérez AM, Collado-Mateo D, Caña-Pino A, Villafaina S, Parraca JA, Apolo-Arenas MD.This systematic review aimed to provide an up-to-date analysis of the effects of equine-assisted therapies (EAT) in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed to conduct this systematic review. PubMed and Web of Science databases were employed in the search, which ended in February 2022. The risk of bias analysis was performed using the Evidence Project tool. After removing duplicates, thirty-nine studies were identified. However, only ten fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were included in t...
Kearney CM, Korthagen NM, Plomp SGM, Labberté MC, de Grauw JC, van Weeren PR, Brama PAJ.Intra-articular triamcinolone acetonide is a widely used treatment for joint inflammation despite limited scientific evidence of its efficacy. Objective: To investigate if intra-articular triamcinolone acetonide has sustained anti-inflammatory effects using an equine model of repeated joint inflammation. Methods: Randomised controlled experimental study. Methods: For three consecutive cycles 2 weeks apart, inflammation was induced in both middle carpal joints of eight horses by injecting 0.25 ng lipopolysaccharide (LPS). After the first LPS injection only, treatment with 12 mg triamcinolone...
de Grauw J, van Loon T.To compare the effects of two different doses of butorphanol combined with detomidine administered intravenously (IV) on quality of sedation, degree of ataxia and anaesthetic induction in horses. Methods: Randomized, blinded, clinical study. Methods: A total of 40 client-owned healthy warmblood horses scheduled for elective surgery under general anaesthesia. Methods: Horses were randomly allocated to be administered 8 μg kg-1 detomidine IV plus either 20 or 50 μg kg-1 butorphanol IV, with the principal investigator blinded to group allocation. Head height was measured before drug injection a...
Lizarraga I, Beths T.To compare the effects of xylazine on mechanical nociceptive thresholds in donkeys and horses. Methods: Randomized, controlled, crossover, Latin-square, operator-blinded design. Methods: Six 3.1 ± 0.89 year old standard donkeys weighing 145.0 ± 30.5 kg and six 9.6 ± 4.4 year old Thoroughbred horses weighing 456.0 ± 69.0 kg. Methods: Each animal received one of four doses of xylazine (0.5, 0.7, 0.9, and 1.1 mg kg(-1) ), or acepromazine (0.05 mg kg(-1) ) or saline solution (0.9%) intravenously and mechanical nociceptive thresholds were assessed over 90 minutes. The areas under the threshold ...
Marcilla MG, Schauvliege S, Duchateau L, Gasthuys F.To evaluate the cardiopulmonary effects of two different constant rate infusions (CRI) of dexmedetomidine (1 and 1.75 microg kg(-1 )hour(-1)) in experimental ponies. Methods: Six healthy ponies (mean 306 +/- SD 71 kg, 7.0 +/- 1.6 years). Methods: Prospective, randomized, experimental study. Methods: After premedication with intravenous (IV) dexmedetomidine (3.5 microg kg(-1)), anaesthesia was induced (T0) with ketamine (2.2 mg kg(-1) IV) and midazolam (0.06 mg kg(-1) IV) and maintained with isoflurane (Fe'ISO 1.50%) in 55% oxygen for 150 minutes. Normocapnia was maintained using artificial ven...
Benmansour P, Husulak ML, Bracamonte JL, Beazley SG, Withnall E, Duke-Novakovski T.To examine the cardiopulmonary effects of infusions of remifentanil or morphine, and their influence on recovery of horses anesthetized with isoflurane and dexmedetomidine. Methods: Randomized crossover study with 7-day rest periods. Methods: Six adult horses (507 ± 61 kg). Methods: After the horses were sedated with xylazine, anaesthesia was induced with ketamine and diazepam, and maintained with isoflurane. After approximately 60 minutes, a dexmedetomidine infusion was started (0.25 μg kg(-1) then 1.0 μg(-1) kg(-1) hour(-1) ) in combination with either saline (group S), morphine (0.15 mg ...
Abdel Ghafar MA, Abdelraouf OR, Abdel-Aziem AA, Elnegamy TE, Mohamed ME, Yehia AM, Mousa GS.Idiopathic scoliosis is a common spinal malalignment that negatively impacts the respiratory system and physical conditioning in adolescents. Equine-assisted therapy comprises therapeutic horseback riding that optimizes physical performance and mobility in a range of contexts. However, the influence of equine-assisted therapy on pulmonary function remains unclear. Objective: To examine the impact of 10 weeks of hippotherapy combined with Schroth exercises on pulmonary function and aerobic capacity in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis. Methods: A randomized controlled trial including 45 pat...
Bowers JR, Slocombe RF.Eight horses were exercised at speeds to produce 80% of maximal heart rates, on 4 occasions using a randomised block design, and girthed at tensions of approximately 5, 10, 15 or 20 kg using a standard canvas girth attached to a racing saddle. Tension was recorded continuously using an in-line load cell connected to a physiograph. Horses ran until fatigued on a treadmill inclined at 10% slope. Tensions were measured at peak inhalation (T/inh) and exhalation (T/exh), recorded at rest (rest) and during exercise (ex). Data were analysed by ANOVA and, in addition, least squares linear regression w...
Clark L, Clutton RE, Blissitt KJ, Chase-Topping ME.To investigate the effects of peri-operative morphine on the quality and duration of recovery from halothane anaesthesia in horses. Methods: Prospective randomized study. Methods: Twenty-two client owned horses, ASA category I or II. Methods: Horses undergoing elective surgical procedures were divided into two groups and paired according to procedure, body position during surgery, body mass and breed. Group M+ received morphine by intravenous injection (0.15 mg kg(-1)) before induction of anaesthesia and then by infusion (0.1 mg kg(-1) hour(-1)) during anaesthesia. Group M- received the same a...
Simon JA, Liu JH, Speroff L, Shumel BS, Symons JP.The purpose of this study was to compare the effects on vaginal bleeding patterns of continuous combined hormone replacement therapy with norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol versus conjugated equine estrogens and medroxyprogesterone acetate. Methods: Three hundred fifty-seven postmenopausal women were selected randomly (in a blinded manner) to 12 months of treatment with 1 mg norethindrone acetate/5 microg ethinyl estradiol, placebo, or open-label 0.625 mg conjugated equine estrogens/2.5 mg medroxyprogesterone acetate (conjugated equine estrogens/medroxyprogesterone acetate [CEE/MPA]; ...
Creighton CM, Lemke KA, Lamont LA, Horney BS, Doyle AJ.To compare the effect of xylazine bolus versus medetomidine constant rate infusion (MCRI) on serum cortisol and glucose concentrations, urine production, and anesthetic recovery characteristics in dorsally recumbent, spontaneously breathing, isoflurane-anesthetized horses. Methods: Prospective, randomized crossover study. Methods: 10 healthy Standardbreds. Methods: Horses were premedicated with xylazine or medetomidine IV. Anesthesia was induced with diazepam and ketamine and maintained with isoflurane for 150 minutes. For the xylazine treatment, end-tidal isoflurane concentration was maintain...
Gold JR, Grubb TL, Green S, Cox S, Villarino NF.In humans, gabapentin an analgesic, undergoes non-proportional pharmacokinetics which can alter efficacy. No information exists on the pharmacokinetics of dosages >20 mg/kg, escalating dosages or dose proportionality of gabapentin in horses. Objective: Gabapentin exposure in plasma would not increase proportionally relative to the dose in horses receiving dosages ≥20 mg/kg. To assess the plasma pharmacokinetics of gabapentin after nasogastric administration of gabapentin at dosages of 10 to 160 mg/kg in adult horses. Methods: Nine clinically healthy adult Arabian and Quarter Horses....
Steel CM, Robertson ID, Thomas J, Yovich JV.To investigate the effects on wound healing of transforming growth factor-beta 1 as a topical treatment to full-thickness, excisional wounds of the distal limb of horses. Methods: A randomised block study using four horses, each with wounds assigned to four treatment groups. Methods: Four adult Standardbred geldings. Methods: Four, 4 cm2, full-thickness wounds were created on the dorsomedial and dorsolateral aspect of the metacarpus or metatarsus of each limb of four horses, giving a total of 64 wounds. For each limb, wounds were randomly assigned to four treatment groups: no treatment (contro...
Flynn H, Cenani A, Brosnan RJ, DiMaio Knych HK, de Araujo Aguiar AJ.To determine the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of high-concentration formulation of buprenorphine (1.8 mg mL; Simbadol) following subcutaneous (SC) administration in horses. Methods: Prospective, randomized, crossover trial. Methods: A group of six healthy adult horses weighing 521-602 kg. Methods: On three occasions, Simbadol (0.005 mg kg; treatment S5), (0.0025 mg kg; treatment S2.5) or saline (treatment SAL) were administered SC at least 7 days apart in random order. Electrical nociceptive threshold (ENT) measured on the neck region, physiologic variables, locomotor activity, degree...
Mainguy-Seers S, Bessonnat A, Picotte K, Lavoie JP.Inhaled corticosteroids are effective in the treatment of equine asthma. A recent study reported that nebulisation of injectable dexamethasone had low systemic bioavailability in healthy horses and could represent a cost-effective therapy for equine inflammatory lung diseases. Objective: To determine the effects of dexamethasone nebulisation on lung function in severe asthmatic horses. It was hypothesised that dexamethasone administered by nebulisation would be more effective than the same dose administered orally. Methods: Randomised blinded experimental study in severe asthmatic horses. Meth...
Alexander J, Hobbs SJ, May K, Northrop A, Brigden C, Selfe J.To observe postural characteristics of female dressage riders, through application of three-dimensional motion analysis and to assess the effects of athletic taping on postural asymmetry during sitting trot. Methods: Randomised cross-over. Methods: Data collection took place at Myerscough Agricultural College in an indoor riding area. Methods: Ten healthy female experienced dressage riders participated. Methods: Movement kinematics of the trunk and pelvis, pre and post taping intervention. Results: Riders presented pre-intervention with asymmetric movement characteristics through dynamic obser...
Guedes AG, Matthews NS, Hood DM.To investigate the effects of ketamine hydrochloride on the analgesic effects of tramadol hydrochloride in horses with signs of pain associated with naturally occurring chronic laminitis. Methods: 15 client-owned adult horses with chronic laminitis. Methods: Each horse received tramadol alone or tramadol and ketamine in a randomized, crossover study (≥ 2 months between treatments). Tramadol (5 mg/kg) was administered orally every 12 hours for 1 week. When appropriate, ketamine (0.6 mg/kg/h) was administered IV for 6 hours on each of the first 3 days of tramadol administration. Noninvasive sy...
Dunkel B, Pfau T, Fiske-Jackson A, Veres-Nyeki KO, Fairhurst H, Jackson K, Chang YM, Bolt DM.To investigate whether acupuncture can alter gait in horses as assessed by objective and subjective parameters. Methods: Prospective, randomized, singleblinded, crossover study. Methods: Eight adult horses. Methods: Horses were randomly assigned to a treatment (three acupuncture treatments in 8 days) or control group. Subjective and objective gait analyses were performed before and after each treatment and at 1, 3 and 7 days after the last treatment (time-points 1-9, respectively). Horses were assessed at the trot in a straight line on a hard surface and on the lunge on the left and right rein...
Cayzer J, Hedderley D, Gray S.Lyophilised products from green-lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus[LPPC]) are used to orally treat horses with osteoarthritis (OA). However, no randomised, controlled or double-blinded studies on the efficacy of this treatment in horses have been reported to date. Objective: To investigate the effects of a unique LPPC (Biolane)(1) in improving clinical signs of OA in the fetlock. Methods: Data were analysed from 26 horses with primary fetlock lameness in a controlled, randomised and double-blinded, multi-centre clinical trial. The study design was a partial crossover with a washout period and co...
Binetti A, Mosing M, Sacks M, Duchateau L, Gasthuys F, Schauvliege S.To describe the cardiorespiratory effects of a change in table position in anaesthetized horses. Methods: Prospective, crossover, randomized, experimental study. Methods: Six adult horses (mean body weight 621 ± 59 kg, aged 13 ± 4 years). Methods: The horses were anaesthetized twice in dorsal recumbency. They were either placed in the Trendelenburg position (head down; HD) followed by reverse Trendelenburg position (head up; HU) or in reverse order. Every position was maintained for 90 minutes. The order of positions was randomly assigned at initial anaesthesia. Extensive cardiorespiratory m...
Brosnan RJ, Steffey EP, LeCouteur RA, Farver TB, Imai A.To test the hypothesis that isoflurane-anesthetized horses during controlled ventilation and spontaneous ventilation exhibit temporal changes in cerebral hemodynamics, as measured by intracranial pressure and cerebral perfusion pressure, that reflect temporal changes in systemic arterial pressure. Methods: 6 healthy adult horses. Methods: Horses were anesthetized in left lateral recumbency with 1.57% isoflurane in O2 for 5 hours in 2 experiments by use of either controlled ventilation (with normocapnia) or spontaneous ventilation (with hypercapnia) in a randomized crossover design. Intracrania...
Hassel DM, Smith PA, Nieto JE, Beldomenico P, Spier SJ.The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a commercially available di-tri-octahedral (DTO) smectite product on clinical signs and prevalence of post-operative diarrhea in horses with colic associated with disease of the large intestine. Sixty-seven horses with surgical disease of the large intestine were randomly assigned to be treated with DTO smectite (n=37; 0.5 kg via nasogastric intubation every 24 h for 3 days post-operatively) or a placebo (n=30). The effect of treatment on fecal scores and clinical and hematological parameters, including heart rate, mucous membrane color, tem...
VanderBroek AR, Reef VB, Aitken MR, Stefanovski D, Southwood LL.Auscultation and ultrasonography are noninvasive techniques used to assess gastrointestinal motility in horses. Recently, noninvasive acoustic gastrointestinal surveillance (AGIS) biosensors evaluating intestinal motility have been validated in humans. Objective: To compare AGIS to auscultation and ultrasonography for detecting decreased motility after xylazine administration. Methods: Randomised, blinded, controlled cross-over proof of principle study. Methods: Six healthy horses were evaluated under fasted and nonfasted conditions and randomly assigned to receive treatment with 0.4 mg/kg xyl...
Steyn PF, Ramey DW, Kirschvink J, Uhrig J.To determine the effect of a static magnetic field on relative blood flow to the metacarpus of horses. Methods: Randomized controlled clinical trial. Methods: 6 healthy adult horses. Methods: Red blood cells were radiolabeled in vivo by administration of technetium Tc 99m (pyro- and trimeta-) phosphates, and scintigraphic images were obtained 30 minutes later. A magnetic wrap that emitted a static magnetic field was applied to 1 metacarpus and a control wrap was applied to the contralateral metacarpus. Forty-eight hours later, the wraps were removed, and scintigraphy was repeated. Relative per...
