Neodymium (Nd):YAG laser surgery in the equine larynx: a pilot study.

This study explores the potential use of Nd:YAG laser surgery, performed endoscopically, to treat various laryngeal diseases in horses, including arytenoid chondritis and laryngeal hemiplegia. It suggests this method may lead to fewer postoperative complications and a comparable or shorter recovery period compared with traditional surgery.

Objective of the Study

• The main goal of this research was to evaluate the effectiveness of an innovative endoscopic approach combined with a neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser in performing an arytenoidectomy, a surgical procedure to remove parts of the arytenoid cartilage in the larynx.

Methodological Approach

• Laryngeal surgeries are typically performed through a ventral laryngotomy incision under general anesthesia with the horse in dorsal recumbency.
• In this pilot study, the researchers used heavy sedation and local anesthesia during surgery, which allowed the horse to remain standing.
• The use of an endoscope coupled with a surgical laser enabled the team to reach and ablate challenging structures in the larynx.

Potential Implications of the Study

• Should the method prove consistently successful, it could change standard practice in equine laryngeal surgeries. It would make other near by structures reachable through the endoscope coupled with a surgical laser.
• Additional possible applications of laser surgery in the equine larynx include treatment of entrapment of the epiglottis, displacement of the dorsal soft palate, and the removal of laryngeal cysts and polyps.
• Furthermore, the study suggests that this new surgical approach could lead to fewer post-operative complications and a similar or shorter convalescence period, which are significant benefits, especially for this valuable animal species.