Laryngoplasty in standing horses.

The research article discusses the successful application of standing laryngoplasty, a surgical procedure performed on the larynx, on non-racing horses presenting with abnormal respiratory noise and poor performance due to right or left recurrent laryngeal neuropathy, a type of nerve disorder. This procedure was performed while the horses were sedated, and it effectively reduced costs and potential complications associated with general anesthesia.

Research Methodology

• The researchers studied a series of 71 client-owned horses treated between April 2008 and February 2014.
• To qualify, the horses had to be diagnosed with idiopathic right or left recurrent laryngeal neuropathy, which was confirmed through videoendoscopy.
• All included horses underwent a non-invasive laryngoplasty with either a unilateral or bilateral ventriculectomy or ventriculocordectomy (surgical procedures involving removal of parts in the larynx).
• Post-surgery, all horses were reviewed via endoscopy within 24 hours, 24 horses at two weeks, and 65 horses after six weeks.
• Additional later follow-ups were conducted via phone calls with the trainer, owner, or referring veterinarian.

Results of the Study

• The surgical procedure was completed in all horses and was well-tolerated.
• During this surgery, no hyperabduction (an extreme opening of the arytenoid cartilage) was observed.
• Post-surgery, only two horses developed incisional swelling, which resolved itself after drainage, without needing any further intervention.
• At the late follow-up stages, only three horses did not show satisfactory improvement in respiration.

Significance of the Study

• The laryngoplasty procedure performed while the horse is standing successfully mitigates risks associated with general anesthesia and recovery.
• The procedure was found to yield comparable results in non-racing horses to the traditional method of laryngoplasty performed under general anesthesia.
• Moreover, the technique reduced operational costs, and allowed for accurate intraoperative adjustment of the degree of arytenoid abduction, giving it a clear advantage.