Equine Nasal Endoscopy: Treating Bullae Disease and Sinus Disease.

This research paper explores the treatment of nasal conchal bullae and sinus diseases in horses, utilizing techniques such as computed tomography scans and nasal endoscopy. The paper specifically emphasizes on understanding empyema conditions, indicating a common relationship with dental or sinus diseases, and highlighting the use of tools including a diode laser, laryngeal forceps, or bipolar vessel sealing devices for treatment.

Understanding Nasal Conchal Bullae

• The nasal conchal bullae are air-filled structures within a horse’s nasal conchae. These structures are separate and can be found both dorsally and ventrally.
• Empyema of the nasal conchae is a disease condition that is diagnosed frequently with computed tomography (CT) scans.

The Association with Other Diseases

• Nasal bullae empyema is typically associated with dental or sinus diseases in horses. This connection implies inclusive or integrated treatment methods to handle the root source of the issue.

Endoscopic Treatment Approach

• The ventral conchal bullae are reported to be easily observable with a standard 10mm diameter flexible endoscopy, administered through the middle nasal meatus. This accessibility provides a convenient route for treatment.
• The same approach can be employed for fenestration of the bullae. Fenestration is a surgical operation that creates an opening for drainage or other therapeutic purposes.

Use of Specialized Tools

• Specific tools, such as a diode laser, equine laryngeal forceps, or bipolar vessel sealing device, are suggested to be effective for the fenestration of the bullae.
• These devices offer different mechanisms of action but serve the common purpose of resolving the clinical signs associated with nasal bullae empyema.