Surgical treatment for epiglottic entrapment in horses: 51 cases (1981-1992).

This study evaluates the outcomes of two surgical treatments for horses with epiglottic entrapment, a common respiratory condition, with and without additional upper airway abnormalities. The results suggest that transoral axial division is more cost-effective, requires shorter hospitalization, and achieves higher success rates for uncomplicated cases, while resection via laryngotomy appears more suitable for more complex cases.

Research Methods

• The researchers looked at the medical records of 51 horses diagnosed with epiglottic entrapment from 1991-1992. The outcomes after surgical treatment were then assessed through a survey of the horse owners and race records.
• The participating horses were divided into three categories: those with uncomplicated epiglottic entrapment treated by transoral axial division (group 1) or treated by resection via laryngotomy (group 2), and those with epiglottic entrapment along with an additional abnormality in the upper airway (group 3).

Findings

• Group 1 had significantly lower costs for treatment, shorter hospital stays, faster returns to racing, and fewer complications than Group 2.
• About 82% of horses in Group 1 experienced a successful outcome from transoral axial division, while only around 27% in Group 2 had a successful outcome.
• Performance analysis from race records showed no significant difference between groups 1 and 2. However, group 3, which had an additional upper airway lesion, had significantly more horses fail to return to racing compared to groups 1 and 2.

Conclusion

• The results suggest that transoral axial division is a highly effective treatment for horses with uncomplicated epiglottic entrapment. This surgical procedure would be the recommended choice due to its cost-effectiveness, shorter recovery period, and higher success rates compared to the alternative.
• For more complicated cases with additional upper airway abnormalities, resection via laryngotomy is suggested. These would typically include scenarios where the horse’s aryepiglottic folds are excessively thick and scarred.
• The researchers recommend future studies to provide more comprehensive insights into the topic.