This research investigates and describes a technique that uses endoscopic guidance combined with three obstetrical wires to extensively resect the nasal septum of horses suffering from septal diseases. The procedure improved horses’ exercise tolerance, reduced abnormal respiratory noise, and was generally well received by the owners. However, the application was associated with complications such as wire entanglement and intraoperative bleeding.

Methodology

• The study was retrospective and involved thirteen horses diagnosed with nasal septum diseases.
• The horses were anesthetized and placed in left lateral recumbency.
• Using endoscopic guidance, obstetrical wires were placed for the ventral and caudal incisions in the nasal septum. A trephine opening was used to place the dorsal wire.
• The rostral part of the septum was then incised with a scalpel, followed by incisions with the preplaced wires.
• Post-incision, the nasal passages were packed with gauze.
• A temporary tracheotomy was performed for the recovery of the horses.

Results and Complications

• In two cases, an intraoral placement of wires was required – one to correct tangled wires, and the other due to hemorrhage obstructing the endoscopic view.
• Improved exercise tolerance and decreased or eliminated abnormal respiratory noises were observed in the horses post-operation, which endeared the procedure to the owners.
• Notably, a Thoroughbred racehorse showed modest performance improvement post-procedure.
• However, technical complications relating to wire entanglement and intraoperative bleeding were noted during the process.

Conclusions and Recommendations for Future Research

• Overall, the modified three-wire procedure was deemed effective and safe for extensive nasal septum removal in horses.
• While endoscopic guidance allowed the placement of obstetrical wires for the resection, complications arising due to wire entanglement and intraoperative hemorrhage were identified as potential areas for procedural improvement.
• It was suggested that evaluating postoperative noise in horses during high-speed activities could be a more accurate indication of the horses’ recovery of athletic potential, compared to evaluations at slower speeds.