Surgical treatment of a penetrated metallic foreign body in the oral cavity wall of a mare.

This study explores the surgical treatment of a mare, whose oral cavity wall was penetrated by a metallic foreign object, causing adverse health effects such as weight loss and poor performance. It highlights the importance of thorough oral examinations and radiography in identifying and curing such cases.

Objective of the Research

• The core objective of this research was to document and share a particular case where a mare suffered health effects due to a metallic foreign body penetrating its oral cavity wall. The study also aimed to demonstrate the effectiveness of surgical intervention for such a situation and highlight the importance of timely oral examinations and radiography for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Case History and Clinical Findings

• The mare in question was suffering from weight loss and poor performance, traced to a decrease in food intake.
• Oral cavity issues in horses can lead to malfunctions in prehension (the process of grasping food with the mouth) and deglutition (swallowing), ultimately resulting in a condition known as dysphagia.
• In this case, the source of the problem was identified to be a piece of wire that had penetrated the left oral wall of the mare, causing a fistula (an abnormal opening) to form.

Surgical Management and Outcome

• The wire was successfully removed through surgical intervention while the horse was mildly sedated and under local anesthesia in a standing position.
• One month after the operation, the condition of the mare had significantly improved, with the horse regaining her previous work performance and not experiencing any postoperative complications.

Implications for Veterinary Medicine

• This case study highlights the importance of precise oral examinations and usage of ancillary diagnostic devices such as radiography, for accurate detection and diagnosis of oral cavity pathologies in horses.
• It also provides an example of successful surgical management of a penetrating foreign body in the oral wall of a horse, lending support to the notion that such procedures can effectively resolve similar issues and contribute to improved animal health and performance.