Congenital retrosternal (Morgagni) diaphragmatic hernias in three horses.

The research is about three horses that were observed and treated for sudden symptoms of abdominal discomfort. These horses were diagnosed with a particular form of hernia, the Morgagni hernia, which is a defect in the diaphragm. Treatment strategies varied; some horses underwent surgery, while at least one was treated conservatively. The research concludes that such diaphragmatic hernias in horses can be successfully managed with different treatment strategies.

Study and Observations

• Three horses that exhibited sudden signs of abdominal distress were studied.
• Upon examination, all three horses were found to have a Morgagni hernia affecting the right side of the diaphragm, a muscle important for breathing.
• In each case, the horse’s large colon had swollen through a defect in the diaphragm and into a hernial sac.

Treatments and Outcomes

• Initial surgery or celiotomy was performed on the horses, but did not involve the definitive repair of the hernia.
• Two of the horses were later treated with a surgical procedure known as mesh herniorrhaphy. This involves the use of a surgical mesh to cover or plug the opening in the diaphragm. The hernia sac, however, was not removed.
• The third horse was managed conservatively without surgical intervention.
• Both the surgically treated horses did not develop any major postoperative complications, and all three horses have not shown signs of abdominal discomfort subsequent to their treatment.

Conclusions from the Study

• The study found that horses with such diaphragmatic hernias can exhibit signs of intermittent large colon obstruction and chronic discomfort or colic.
• The researchers observed that retrosternal diaphragmatic hernias in horses appear to exclusively develop on the right lower part, or ventral aspect, of the diaphragm.
• They postulated that this could represent a developmental or embryological defect in the formation of the diaphragm.
• The study concluded that mesh herniorrhaphy, a surgical procedure, or in some cases, conservative management, can be effective in treating horses affected with this condition.