Use of a carbon dioxide laser for surgical management of cutaneous masses in horses: 32 cases (1993-2000).

The study investigated the effectiveness of using a carbon dioxide laser for the surgical removal of skin masses in horses.

Objective and Methodology

The primary aim of this study was to determine the outcomes of using carbon dioxide lasers as a treatment method for removing cutaneous (skin) masses in horses. The study was retrospective in nature and looked at 32 cases involving horses that underwent such treatment between the years 1993 and 2000.

• Researchers examined the medical records of these horses, all of which had one or more skin masses that had been treated with a carbon dioxide laser.
• They collected follow-up information by conducting telephone interviews with owners and referring veterinarians.

Findings and Results

The study classified the skin masses into sarcoids (seen in 15 horses), neoplastic masses other than sarcoids (such as squamous cell carcinoma, fibroma, and melanoma) and non-neoplastic masses.

• The minimum follow-up period was six months post-surgery.
• Five sarcoids and two squamous cell carcinomas recurred.
• Approximately 21% of the horses experienced complications related to wound healing, either because of dehiscence (bursting open) of wounds that had been primarily closed or because of the recurrence of the mass.
• About 81% of owners expressed satisfaction with the cosmetic appearance of their horses following surgery.

Conclusion

Based on the findings, the study concluded that a carbon dioxide laser could be a potentially effective method for treating skin masses in horses. However, there are associated risks, as seen in the percentage of horses that experienced post-operative complications and the recurrence of certain masses. This highlights the need for further investigation and careful consideration when deciding on treatment options.