Epiglottic entrapment. A transnasal surgical approach to divide the aryepiglottic fold axially in the standing horse.

The study details the use of a transnasal surgical procedure to correct epiglottic entrapment in horses, highlighting the effectiveness of the procedure in improving the horse’s performance without requiring extensive recovery time.

Objective and Background

• The research aims to investigate the efficacy of a transnasal, axial division of the aryepiglottic fold as a corrective surgery for epiglottic entrapment in horses.
• Epiglottic entrapment is a condition that affects the performance of horses, leading to decreased exercise tolerance, unusual respiratory noise, and coughing. It happens when the epiglottis, a flap in the throat, gets caught under a fold of tissue, hereby limiting its movement and causing breathing difficulties.

Methodology

• The study involves 20 sedated horses that have been diagnosed with epiglottic entrapment.
• The surgery was performed through a transnasal approach, i.e., via the horse’s nostril, using a hooked bistoury (a surgical instrument) and topical anesthesia.
• The purpose of the surgery was to divide the aryepiglottic fold axially in order to free the trapped epiglottis.

Results and Findings

• The surgical procedure was technically simple to carry out and required minimal instrumentation, thus reducing the potential risk and complications for the horses.
• Following the surgery, the horses were given an average rest period of 18 days before they resumed race training or riding.
• A post-operative assessment using racing records or through direct contact with the horse owners indicated that the majority of the horses were able to compete successfully after the transnasal surgery.

Conclusion

• The study concludes that the transnasal division of the aryepiglottic fold is an effective surgical procedure for correcting epiglottic entrapment in horses.
• This procedure not only improves the horse’s performance but also requires minimal recovery time, hence offering a more beneficial route for the horse’s welfare and performance capabilities.