Use of Thoracic Catheters to Drain Pelvic Abscesses in Horses: Two Cases.

The article discusses the successful application of thoracic catheters in draining pelvic abscesses in two horses. The standard treatment procedure included both the use of chest tubes for drainage, as well as the repeated application of lavages and targeted antibiotics.

Objective of the Study

• The primary goal of this research article is to detail two unique cases of treating pelvic abscesses in horses. The horses were treated by draining the abscesses using indwelling, or internal, chest tubes in combination with repeated lavages and targeted antibiotic treatments.

About Pelvic Abscesses in Horses

• Pelvic abscesses can occur in horses across all breeds and ages. These abscesses represent a collection of pus within the horse’s pelvic region, resulting from an infection or inflammation.
• Small abscesses can often be managed conservatively – dealing with the abscess without operational intervention. Large abscesses or those which cause secondary intestinal obstruction might necessitate surgical drainage.

Use of Thoracic Catheters and Lavages

• The researchers in the study made use of indwelling chest tubes, or thoracic catheters, to drain the abscesses essentially from the inside. This method may allow for more efficient draining, potentially enabling faster recoveries.
• The indwelling chest tubes were also used in combination with repeated lavages, which are therapeutic washings of a body cavity or wound. Lavages could potentially remove any remaining infected material, providing a more thorough treatment.

Application of Targeted Antibiotic Treatment

• Alongside the drainage and lavage procedures, targeted antibiotic treatment was used to tackle the infection causing the abscess. This approach helps in effectively eliminating the infection, aiding in the overall recovery of the horses.
• The antibiotic treatment was ‘targeted’ based on the specific type of bacteria causing the abscess. This specificity can increase the treatment’s effectiveness by directly combating the particular infection.

Outcome of the Study

• The treatment procedure highlighted in the study was successful in both reported cases, indicating the potential of such a combined approach in treating similar cases of large pelvic abscesses in horses.