Permanent tracheostomy in standing horses: technique and results.

This study focuses on the creation of permanent tracheal stomas in seven horses with severe upper airway obstruction, while under sedation and standing. The procedure was successful, with the horses healing without significant complications and even returning to their usual activities like riding and foaling.

Research Objectives

• This study aims at assessing the feasibility and outcomes of performing permanent tracheostomies in standing, sedated horses with serious upper airway obstruction.

Methodology

• To initiate the procedure, the horses were first sedated and a small region of the skin on the lower surface of the horse’s neck was removed. The location for excision was marked at a distance of three centimeters from a piece of soft tissue in the throat, known as the cricoid cartilage.
• The sternothyrohyoideus muscles, which are situated between the breastbone and the hyoid bone located in the throat, were clamped at both ends and then cut to expose the tracheal rings – the series of circular cartilages comprising the trachea.
• Further, devising a surgical plan, the researchers then carefully dissected the lower third part of four tracheal rings from the mucous membrane lining of the trachea (tracheal mucosa). The tracheal mucosa was then cut in a unique pattern resembling a double ‘Y’ shape.
• To close the created opening, two layers of suturing were executed for mucocutaneous closure, where the stoma (or the opening) establishes a connection between the skin (cutaneous) and the mucous membrane (mucous).

Results

• The tracheostomy was essentially successful, with the stomas healing without any remarkable complications.
• After recovery, the horses were able to return to their anticipated lifestyle. Two mares were even able to give birth to foals while three of the horses underwent the procedure, later resumed riding.

Significance of Study

• The success of this study provides promising indications for the effective use of permanent tracheostomy in horses with severe upper airway obstruction. As shown, the horses not only recovered without serious adverse effects but were also able to return to their regular activities post-procedure.