Evaluation of a laryngotomy approach for near-total resection of the nasal septum in the horse.

This research investigates two techniques for the removing nearly all of the nasal septum in horses: the trephination method and the laryngotomy method. Results suggest that the laryngotomy approach is safer, faster, and results in fewer complications and is thus recommended for near-total nasal septum removal in horses.

Objective of the Study

• The study aimed to assess the efficiency, safety, and outcome of a laryngotomy approach for the removal of the nasal septum in adult horses. Comparison is made with the trephination approach, which was a previously reported method.

Methodology

• The study investigated the performance of these methods on ten horses.
• Near-total resection i.e., removal of nearly the entire nasal septum, using a modification of a previously reported 3-wire technique (trephination) and a 2-wire technique (laryngotomy) were tested.
• Various parameters such as surgical time, ease of application of the technique, complications arising during and after surgery, and the final outcome, were recorded for both methods.
• All the horses, 45 days post-surgery, were euthanized and further septal measurements were made.

Results

• Both techniques were capable of effectively removing the nasal septum without serious complications.
• The trephination technique resulted in incision complications, and transient granulation tissue (scar tissue) formed around the rostral stump in the laryngotomy group.
• The laryngotomy technique was found to be easier to execute and resulted in an outcome that is more aesthetically pleasing.

Conclusion

• The study concludes that the laryngotomy approach represents a safe and expedient solution for near-total resection of the nasal septum in horses, producing minimal complications. It is preferable considering the ease of execution and cosmetic result.