[The prevention of pneumovagina and the effect of the Caslick operation on fertility: a retrospective study].

The research article studies mares with large vulvar orifices that are susceptible to pneumovagina, a condition that can decrease fertility. The Caslick operation, which reduces the size of the vulvar orifice, is analyzed to understand its impact on fertility. The study shows that age and fertility status can influence the occurrence of pneumovagina.

Research Context

• The research was conducted over four years from 1994 to 1996.
• A total of 967 mares sent for service at a stud were included in the study.
• Out of these, 116 mares underwent the Caslick operation.

Preliminary Findings

• The operated mares were generally older than the non-operated ones.
• Mares aged less than 5 years were less prone to pneumovagina than those aged between 5-12 years. Pneumovagina occurrence increased in mares aged 13 years and older.
• Compared to maiden mares, foals and barren mares had a higher likelihood of developing pneumovagina.

Effect of the Caslick Operation on Fertility

• The study showed a fertility rate of 67% among the non-operated mares compared to 51% among those that had undergone the Caslick operation.
• This reduction in fertility post-operation occurred despite the vulvar orifice of operated and non-operated mares being the same.
• The researchers propose that the fertility drop might be due to secondary endometritis that remains after the operation.

Further Research

• The study suggests more research needs to be conducted to determine if mares with pneumovagina should also receive treatment for endometritis at the time of the operation.