[Transendoscopic laser surgery of exercise-induced dorsal displacement of the soft palate in horses].

This research involves the use of transendoscopic laser surgery to treat a condition in horses known as exercise-induced dorsal displacement of the soft palate, and it reports a 62% success rate in eliminating the issue.

Research Context

• The study was conducted between 1995 and 1997 on 13 horses that displayed a distinct respiratory noise due to a condition known as exercise-induced dorsal displacement of the soft palate (DDSP).
• DDSP is a disorder where the soft palate (a part of the horse’s breathing apparatus) moves out of place during exercise, and it results in an unusual gurgling noise.

Research Methodology

• The affected horses were treated using a surgical technique known as transendoscopic coagulation with the use of a Neodym-YAG-Laser. This type of laser surgery is performed using an endoscope inserted into the horse’s throat, and it’s meant to alter the shape and elasticity of the soft palate, restoring its correct position.
• Some horses required more than one surgical intervention if the initial signs of DDSP remained post-surgery.

Research Findings

• The research found that eight out of the 13 horses (62%) showed no signs of respiratory noises post-surgery and successfully returned to racing and riding.
• Improvement was observed in two horses (15%), although the respiratory noises remained.
• In three horses (23%), the respiratory noises remained stagnant with no noticeable improvement.

Research Conclusion

• The use of transendoscopic laser surgery has some advantages over other treatments for DDSP, chiefly shorter recovery times and similar success rates.
• As per the study, the surgical method provides an effective way of managing exercise-induced DDSP in horses and significantly helps improve their performance.