Complications of umbilical hernias in horses: 13 cases (1972-1986).

This research article examines the complications related to umbilical hernias in horses. Out of 147 horses treated over a span of 13.5 years, 13 encountered complications. These complications ranged from intestinal incarceration and abscesses to development of an enterocutaneous fistula. Although complications are rare, they can take various forms and some have a slow onset.

About the Research

• The study was conducted over a sizable period of 13.5 years, giving a comprehensive insight into the complication rates and types associated with umbilical hernias in horses.
• Out of 147 horses treated for umbilical hernias, 13 (8.8%) developed complications highlighting that complications though rare, can occur.
• This longitudinal nature of the study adds significant value and validity to the research findings.

Nature of Complications

• Six horses had intestinal incarceration which was managed through different methods; three were manually reduced before they were admitted to the facility while in two cases it self-resolved. One case required surgical reduction.
• There was also a case of an enterocutaneous fistula and parietal hernia, both of which were treated surgically. The horse with the enterocutaneous fistula, tragically, did not survive due to electrolyte imbalances and peritonitis after an unsuccessful surgery.

Managing the Complications

• Herniorrhaphy, a surgical procedure for correcting hernia, was performed on four horses in which the intestinal incarceration did not require surgical reduction.
• Three horses developed an umbilical abscess; two of these plus one with an enterocutaneous fistula responded well to surgical intervention. However, one did not survive due to complications after surgery.
• Despite these complications, the majority of the horses studied recovered, indicating that, with appropriate management and interventions, complications from umbilical hernias can be successfully treated.

Implication of the Study

• The study underlines that complications of umbilical hernias are rare in horses.
• However, the variety and potential severity of these complications underscores the importance of close monitoring and timely intervention.
• The observed complications ranged from relatively benign conditions like intestinal incarceration to potential life-threatening conditions such as development of an enterocutaneous fistula.
• The study confirmed that interventions for these complications can range from conservative management to surgical procedures based upon the nature and severity of the complication.