Percutaneous drainage of an abscess in the lateral neck region of a horse.

The study presents a case of a large abscess in a horse’s neck region, that was successfully treated using percutaneous drainage. This procedure, popular in human medicine, was performed by first locating the abscess using ultrasonography, then enlarging the hole for a catheter, which made it possible to aspirate and clean the abscess. No complications were observed, and the abscess healed within 10 days.

Methodology

• The study began with the use of ultrasonography to localize the large abscess in the lateral neck region of the horse. Ultrasonography is a diagnostic imaging technique which uses ultrasound waves to produce images of the interior body structures.
• Once the abscess was located, the researchers used a 7.7 cm spinal needle to aspirate it. Aspiration in this case is the process of withdrawing fluid or pus from the abscess.
• A stainless-steel guide wire was then passed through the needle, which aided in the placement of tissue dilators. Tissue dilators are used to gradually enlarge the hole made by the needle in order to accommodate the catheter.

Catheter Placement and Abscess Drainage

• A multiperforated polyvinylchloride (PVC) catheter was then placed within the abscess cavity. The catheter’s perforations allowed for the aspiration and lavage (cleaning using fluid) of the abscess.
• The process was successful and resulted in the removal of the pus and fluid from the abscess, leading to its resolution.
• The treatment administered over the course of 10 days was free from complications commonly associated with invasive procedures e.g. infection.

Implication and Application

• This study illustrates that percutaneous abscess drainage, which is frequently performed in human medicine, can also have applications in veterinary medicine.
• It provides a less invasive alternative than surgical opening of the abscess, potentially resulting in quicker recovery times and minimal discomfort for the animal.