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Topic:Surgery
Surgery for horses encompasses a range of procedures performed to diagnose, treat, or manage various medical conditions. These procedures may involve soft tissue or orthopedic interventions and require specialized techniques to accommodate the unique anatomical and physiological characteristics of equines. Common surgical procedures in horses include colic surgery, fracture repair, and arthroscopy. The success of equine surgery depends on numerous factors, including the type of procedure, the horse's overall health, and post-operative care. This page compiles peer-reviewed research studies and scholarly articles that explore surgical techniques, outcomes, and advancements in equine surgical practices.
Outcome of keratoma removal using different surgical techniques, including a modified partial hoof wall resection: A retrospective study (2004-2025). Keratomas are diseases of the equine hoof that can be associated with intermittent lameness and/or recurrent foot abscesses. Different surgical techniques for keratoma removal have been described. The aim of this retrospective study was to report the short- and long-term postoperative complications after keratoma removal using different surgical techniques: complete hoof wall resection (CR), partial hoof wall resection (PR) and a modified version of PR (MPR). The medical records of horses diagnosed with keratoma and space occupying lesion (SOL) of the hoof wall (2004-2025) at a Veterinary Teac...
Transcriptomic and Meat Quality Differences in Longissimus Dorsi Muscle of Surgically Castrated Three-Year-Old Kazakh Horses. Although the Kazakh horse is a dual-purpose breed renowned for both milk and meat production, the extent to which surgical castration alters gene expression in its muscles has not yet been fully elucidated. In this study, left longissimus dorsi muscle (LDM) samples were obtained from six Kazakh stallions (W group) and six Kazakh geldings (S group) to comparatively evaluate meat quality parameters, examine histological characteristics in tissue sections, and apply transcriptomic profiling to comprehensively explore the principal regulatory pathways and candidate genes through which surgical cas...
Phage Therapy for a Refractory and Multidrug-resistant Equine Surgical Site Infection. A 14-year-old American Quarter Horse mare developed a refractory deep surgical site infection following emergency celiotomy for acute right dorsal large colon displacement with 180° volvulus. Initial cultures revealed a high-burden polymicrobial infection with and , associated with delayed healing, and later followed by multidrug-resistant , further limiting therapeutic options. Phage therapy was initiated using a customized lytic phage cocktail administered topically on a daily basis over a 35-day period, with cocktail composition guided by daily wound culture results. Phage therapy markedl...
An unusual presentation of a sarcoid in Australia. Sarcoids are a common skin tumour affecting all equids. To date, only one case of a sarcoid in the oral cavity of the horse has been reported. In the present case, an oral sarcoid was identified using histology and polymerase chain reaction to detect bovine papillomavirus type 2 DNA. The lesion was known to be incompletely surgically excised and did not recur over a 15-month period. This case report describes the first oral sarcoid identified in Australia.
A study of the forces generated during equine cheek tooth extraction. Significant force is often applied when elevating equine teeth from the alveolus during extraction. No previous studies have investigated these forces. Objective: To develop a method to allow measurement of elevation forces (EF) applied during extraction, and to record forces during extraction of cheek teeth in both cadaver specimens and clinical cases, evaluating factors that might affect this and comparing differences between tooth positions and horse signalments. Methods: In vitro experimental study of cadavers and observational study of a convenience sample of clinical cases. Methods: Stra...
Novel technique for correcting urovagina via urethral transposition in the horse. Vesicovaginal reflux is a common cause of infertility in mares. Surgical correction is commonly recommended and involves caudal relocation of the urethral orifice which forces the urine to be expelled caudally. There have been several previously described techniques. Complications associated with caudal urethral extension occur in 11-33.3% of cases. Objective: To identify a novel technique for performing caudal urethral translocation that effectively corrects vesicovaginal reflux with minimal associated complications. Methods: In vivo experiment and clinical case series. Methods: The experimen...
Morbidity associated with inhalation anesthesia in horses: the role of opioid use in a university teaching hospital. Despite concerns among equine practitioners, the effects of opioid administration on intraoperative complications during inhalation anesthesia remain incompletely characterized. This retrospective study evaluated intraoperative complications and perianesthetic mortality in horses undergoing inhalation anesthesia according to opioid use. Medical records from a university veterinary hospital were reviewed (2014-2025) and grouped based on opioid inclusion in anesthetic protocols and surgery type (colic vs. non-colic). Intraoperative hypotension (MAP < 70 mmHg), hypothermia (temperature 65 mmH...
Mitigating and addressing complications in equine laparoscopy. The purpose of this article was to report a condensed overview of current strategies for mitigating and managing complications in equine laparoscopic surgery. Minimally invasive surgical techniques have become standard in equine surgery for a variety of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, with purported advantages including reduced postoperative pain, expedited recovery, fewer incisional complications, and enhanced visual imagery for the surgeon compared to traditional open approaches. Despite these benefits, complications can arise, and the literature demonstrates variability in definition...
Use of computer-assisted tomography for diagnosis and standing surgical reduction of progressive ethmoidal hematoma in a mare. Progressive ethmoidal hematoma (PEH) is a rare, nonneoplastic mass occurring in the sinonasal passages of horses. An 11-year-old, pregnant Thoroughbred mare was presented with a history of intermittent nasal discharge and stertorous respiration. On examination, radiography revealed increased opacity in the sinus and nasal cavities and endoscopy identified a mass emerging from the left ethmoidal turbinate. Computed tomography (CT) showed the range and origin of the mass, indicative of PEH. A standing frontonasal flap was made under sedation, following temporary tracheostomy to secure the airway...
Roux-en-Y gastrojejunostomy and jejunojejunostomy for pyloric obstruction bypass in a horse and a foal. Gastric outflow obstruction in horses is a rare but challenging condition, often resulting from either congenital anomalies or acquired lesions such as chronic ulceration or pyloric polyps. Conventional surgical bypass procedures, including gastrojejunostomy (GJ) or gastroduodenostomy and less commonly duodenojejunostomy, can restore patency but may lead to postoperative complications. Objective: To describe the presentation, surgical management, and postoperative outcome of two horses-an adult and a foal treated with Roux-en-Y gastrojejunostomy combined with a side-to-side jejunojejunostomy (...
Cheek tooth extraction in geriatric versus non-geriatric horses. Age-related dental changes are major contributors to dental disorders in older horses, and cheek tooth extractions are often required to maintain masticatory function and oral comfort. However, limited information is available on clinical and treatment characteristics in this older patient population. Objective: To describe clinical features, treatments, complication rates and short-term outcomes of horses undergoing oral cheek tooth extraction and treatment of odontogenic sinusitis, and to compare findings between geriatric and non-geriatric horses. Methods: Retrospective analysis of clinical...
Laser neoureterocystostomy to treat ectopic ureters. Ureteral ectopia is an uncommon but clinically important congenital abnormality in horses. If left untreated, it can lead to persistent dermatitis, urinary tract infections, and failure to thrive. Surgical correction is necessary, but traditional approaches have produced mixed results with high morbidity. Identification of a minimally invasive, effective technique would significantly improve prognosis. Objective: To describe the procedure and outcomes of cystoscopic guided laser neoureterocystostomy in three fillies. Methods: Case series. Methods: Retrospective review of three cases treated wi...
Management of Equine Post-Extraction Cheek Tooth Alveoli: Application of Alveolar Plugs. Preservation of dentition remains the primary goal of equine dentistry; however, cheek tooth extraction is required in cases of severe dental pathology. Following tooth extraction, management of the post-extraction alveolus remains a significant clinical challenge due to its large size and susceptibility to contamination with feed material and bacteria. To mitigate these risks, alveolar plugs are commonly used to protect the alveolus, stabilize the blood clot, and support granulation tissue formation. This review summarizes the current case reports and research articles regarding the use of al...
Use of Intraperitoneal Lidocaine in Horses Undergoing Laparotomy for Colic. Perioperative lidocaine is widely used in horses with acute abdomen for its analgesic, prokinetic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-endotoxic effects, although evidence of its visceral analgesic efficacy remains inconclusive. Given the potential of alternative routes of administration for local anaesthetics, this prospective, randomised, unblinded clinical trial evaluated whether intraperitoneal (IP) lidocaine improves early postoperative recovery, including recovery from anaesthesia and the first 24 h after laparotomy for colic. A Multifactorial Numerical Rating Composite Pain Scale for equines wa...
A Surgical Technique for Removal of Setaria digitata From the Anterior Chamber Under Standing Sedation: Outcomes in 12 Horses. To describe a rapid surgical technique for removal of the intraocular nematode Setaria digitata from the anterior chamber of horses under standing sedation and to report clinical outcomes. Methods: Twelve client-owned horses (2021-2026) presented with a motile intracameral worm. Methods: All surgeries were performed under field conditions using standing sedation (xylazine 1.1 mg kg and butorphanol 0.1 mg kg IV), regional nerve blocks (lidocaine 2%), and topical anesthesia (proparacaine). A 2.8 mm uniplanar oblique (~45°) corneal incision was created ventrolaterally approximately 2â€...
Near-Term Extrauterine Pregnancy Secondary To Uterine Rupture In A Mare. Uterine rupture is an uncommon but life-threatening complication of equine reproduction, typically associated with dystocia, uterine torsion, fetal manipulation, or hydrops. Tears may occur in either the uterine horns or body, although involvement of the ventral uterine body is rare. This case report describes an 11-year-old Arabian mare at 350 days of gestation that developed abdominal pregnancy secondary to uterine torsion and full-thickness ventral uterine rupture, resulting in fetal death and the free presence of the fetus within the peritoneal cavity. Surgical removal of the fetus and pri...
Owner satisfaction and animal welfare after bilateral enucleation in horses. Bilateral enucleation in horses represents a challenging decision for owners, undertaken to relieve chronic, untreatable ocular pain. Emotional distress and uncertainty regarding postoperative welfare often lead to euthanasia instead of surgery. Objective: To evaluate owner perceptions of equine quality of life before and after bilateral enucleation, and to assess satisfaction with the procedure. Methods: Retrospective case series. Methods: Medical records from 21 horses that underwent bilateral enucleation between 2016 and 2024 were reviewed. Owners completed a structured survey assessing sat...
A 12-year review of equestrian related injuries at a major trauma centre in South Africa. Few studies on equestrian-related injuries have specifically focused on patients in South Africa. The aim of this study was to review the spectrum of injuries and of patients treated at state-funded trauma centres in South Africa. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted over a 12-year period from July 2012 to February 2025 on all patients treated for equestrian-related injuries. Results: A total of 82 patients were included (83% male, median age: 17 years, median injury severity score (ISS): 9). The most common mechanism of injury was a fall ( = 41), followed by a kick ( = 38). Two were t...
Venous blood lactate concentration as a predictor of intestinal viability in horses with acquired indirect inguinal hernia. Background: Acquired indirect inguinal hernia represents a life-threatening emergency. Therapeutic decision-making largely depends on intestinal viability, for which specific predictive parameters (such as venous lactate) have not been evaluated.Objectives: Investigating the predictive performance of venous blood lactate and other laboratory results on intestinal viability in horses with acquired indirect inguinal hernias.Study designRetrospective multicentre observational study.Methods: Seventy-four horses diagnosed with acquired indirect inguinal hernia (treated surgically) at two referral h...
Functional and feasibility aspects of orthopedic exoprostheses in quadruped domestic animals: a systematic review. The use of prostheses in animals with partial limb amputation has emerged as an alternative to euthanasia, aiming to improve their quality of life. However, the fabrication and adaptation remain challenging in Veterinary Medicine. This study aims to evaluate, through a systematic review, the determinants of viability, outcomes, and limitations of exoprostheses in domestic animals of varying sizes. A literature search was conducted in ScienceDirect, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar using structure search terms related to prosthesis, veterinary, amputation. After screening and ...
Structural Features of the Equine Small Intestinal Mesenteric Attachment Predisposing to Rupture. Rupture of equine small intestine with formation of a pouch of ingesta within the mesentery has been reported in clinical colic cases. Multiple ex-vivo studies using anastomosed jejunum observed rupture into the mesentery, distant to the anastomosis. Both scenarios suggest the jejunum is predisposed to rupture at the mesenteric attachment. The aim of the study is to 1) document the location at which equine jejunal segments rupture when subjected to high intraluminal pressures, 2) identify predisposing anatomical features that may confer weakness at the point of rupture and 3) demonstrate jejun...
Historical perspectives guide advances in equine minimally invasive soft tissue surgery. Equine minimally invasive soft tissue surgical techniques have increased in demand and frequency with concurrent expansion of training programs under the oversight of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons. Benefits of recent advances in laparoscopic techniques include reduced cost and risk associated with general anesthesia and anesthetic recovery, improved visualization of the surgical field relative to open procedures, and more rapid return to performance, further improving patient welfare and limiting economic loss to the industry following surgical interventions. The evolution of lap...
Prepubic Tendon Rupture and Uterine Herniation in a Late-Term Kurdish Mare: A Case Report. Prepubic tendon rupture (PPTR) is a rare but life-threatening complication in late-term pregnant mares. It results in abdominal wall failure, ventral oedema and a poor prognosis for both the mare and foetus. A 14-year-old multiparous Kurdish mare at approximately 310 days of gestation presented with acute ventral distension, reluctance to walk and cranial displacement of the udder. Clinical evaluation revealed tachycardia, pallor and Grade 3/4 ventral oedema. Haematology indicated leucocytosis and haemoconcentration. Transabdominal ultrasonography showed a viable foetus and severe thinning of ...
Rostral hard palate swelling (lampas) in horses: true or fiction? This study aimed to determine the occurrence of swellings (lampas) in the rostral portion of the hard palate in young, adult, and elderly horses and to characterize them histologically. One hundred and twenty horses of different ages were evaluated by oral inspection. Horses were classified with lampas when the mucosa of the hard palate extended beyond the occlusal surface of the upper incisors and samples of palatal mucosa were collected. Ten other horses without rostral hard palate alterations, euthanized for unrelated causes, were included as the control group. Histological analysis include...
Review of articular cartilage repair techniques and their application in the horse. Articular cartilage lesions represent a significant career-limiting problem in athletic horses. A healthy articular cartilage surface is vital for optimal joint function, and defects can result in irreversible degenerative changes. Successful treatment of cartilage lesions remains a long-standing challenge for orthopaedic surgeons, prompting ongoing research into new surgical techniques for their management. This narrative review describes surgical procedures for the treatment of cartilage/osteochondral lesions, as well as the use of the horse as a highly translational preclinical model to hum...
Piezosurgical partial ostectomy of the incisive bone for an ossifying fibroma removal in a 4-year-old Warmblood gelding. Ossifying fibromas are uncommon in horses and complete surgical excision with premaxillectomy, maxillectomy or mandibulectomy is recommended. Piezosurgery has been previously used in equines only in one study. Objective: To report a case of ossifying fibroma treated with piezosurgery and to describe its follow-up. Methods: Clinical case report. Methods: A 4-year-old Zangersheide gelding was presented for a mass occupying the space of tooth 202. Histology confirmed the diagnosis of ossifying fibroma, which was removed by resection of soft tissues and a slice of the premaxilla with a piezotome. ...
Impact of evidence-based information on horse owners’ misconceptions of colic. Misconceptions can be defined as 'false, persistent beliefs' or 'inaccurate, prior knowledge' and can influence decision-making. Objective: To investigate the impact of evidence-based information on UK horse owners' decision-making for colic. Methods: Mixed-methods cross-sectional study. Methods: An online survey was distributed to UK horse owners, with four sections: owner demographics; views on decision-making and referral to an equine hospital facility for colic; current knowledge and approach to colic; impact of evidence-based information (including evidence on recognising and responding t...
Trendelenburg positioning with or without norepinephrine infusion for haemodynamic support in anaesthetised hypovolemic horses. Intraoperative haemorrhage during equine anaesthesia is a rare but potentially fatal complication requiring prompt haemodynamic support. Postural manoeuvres such as Trendelenburg (TL) positioning and vasopressor support augment venous return and improve cardiac output (CO), yet their efficacy in anaesthetised hypovolemic horses remains unstudied. Objective: To evaluate haemodynamic effects of TL positioning during normovolemia and acute haemorrhagic hypovolemia, and to determine whether concurrent norepinephrine (NE) infusion enhances cardiovascular stabilisation. Methods: In vivo experiments....
Abdominal palpation per rectum is highly sensitive for identifying small versus large intestinal lesions in horses presenting for colic. To describe the sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, and accuracy of abdominal palpation per rectum in horses treated surgically for colic. Unassigned: Medical records were gathered over 5 years (2019 to 2024). Findings of abdominal palpation per rectum were collected and compared to surgical diagnosis, and cases were categorized as true or false positive and negative. Signalment, physical examination parameters, hematologic values, and years of examiner experience were recorded. Unassigned: Records of 453 horses were included. Overall sensitivity and positive predictive value were 86%...
