Treatment of epiglottic entrapment by transnasal axial division in standing sedated horses using a shielded hook bistoury.

This research article presents a study on the use of a shielded hook bistoury instrument to safely and effectively correct a condition called epiglottic fold entrapment in horses while they are standing and sedated.

Research methodology

• The study was prospective in nature and included 8 Standardbred horses aged between 3 and 19 years.
• The horses underwent a procedure to correct epiglottic fold entrapment. This condition occurs when the fold of tissue that should normally cover the windpipe during swallowing becomes stuck around the epiglottis, causing respiratory issues.
• The procedure involved standing sedation, during which a shielded hook bistoury was passed through the nostrils into the pharynx (a part of the throat) of the horses.
• The researchers followed up with the horses’ owners, trainers, and referring veterinarians via phone to establish the outcomes of the procedure.

Results of the study

• The method of axial division of the entrapping epiglottic fold was successful in all of the horses, proving the effectiveness of the shielded hook bistoury.
• The researchers reported no short-term or long-term complications, indicating that the procedure was safe for the horses.
• The procedure was also quick, with the average time being 83 seconds from the moment the bistoury was advanced into the pharynx to the transection (dissection) of the entrapping fold.

Concluding thoughts

• The study concluded that transnasal axial division of the aryepiglottic fold can be accomplished safely using the shielded hook bistoury.
• The shield mechanism on the bistoury minimizes the risk of injury from the cutting blade to adjacent structures. This feature adds an extra level of safety to the procedure by protecting other areas of the throat from potential damage.