Prosthetic Mesh for Obliteration of the Nephrosplenic Space in Horses: 26 Clinical Cases.

The study examines the use of prosthetic mesh to close the nephrosplenic space in horses and the subsequent surgical complications, instances of post-surgical colic, and overall health and performance of the horses. The study, spanning from 2006 to 2013, shows that this method effectively prevents colon entrapment without any associated surgical complications.

Methodology

• 26 horses underwent this process, referred to as nephrosplenic space obliteration, using a prosthetic mesh between 2006 and 2013.
• The mesh, named Proxplast™, was attached to the nephrosplenic space with titanium helical coils in horses that were standing, through laparoscopic technique.
• Post-surgery, data was collected through medical records and telephonic follow-ups.
• Tests were conducted to compare the study population to the general hospitalized colic population.
• The occurrence of colic within 1 year after the surgery was compared among horses whose diagnosis was confirmed via laparotomy and those diagnosed by abdominal palpation per rectum.

Results

• All 26 horses that underwent the procedure survived and were discharged.
• Long-term follow-up data was available for 25 horses, out of which 23 resumed their prior level of function, and 21 were alive at the time of follow-up.
• The cause of the death of the 4 horses was not associated with the surgical procedure.
• Geldings and Warmbloods were over-represented in the study compared to the hospital colic population.
• 10 horses (38%) experienced colic after the procedure. However, none of these cases were diagnosed with recurrence of nephrosplenic entrapment.

Conclusions

• The study concludes that mesh obliteration of the nephrosplenic space is an effective preventive measure for nephrosplenic entrapment of the large colon in horses.
• No complications associated with the mesh obliteration procedure were reported in the study population.