Use of transendoscopic contact neodymium:yttrium aluminum garnet laser to drain dorsal epiglottic abscesses in two horses.

This research investigates how a neodymium:yttrium aluminum garnet laser was successfully deployed transendoscopically to drain dorsal epiglottic abscesses in two Thoroughbred racehorses, resolving clinical symptoms and allowing the horses to resume racing.

Introduction

In this study, the researchers treated two Thoroughbred racehorses that exhibited signs of exercise intolerance as a result of a submucosal abscess located on the dorsal surface of the epiglottis (the flap at the base of the tongue that keeps food from going into the windpipe). These abscesses were detected using endoscopy – a diagnostic tool that allows veterinarians to visually examine an animal’s internal organs without surgery. One of the horses also displayed intermittent dorsal displacement of the soft palate, coughed while eating and galloping, and made abnormal respiratory noise.

Methods

• Looking for a less invasive treatment method, the researchers utilized a contact neodymium:yttrium aluminum garnet laser for the procedure. This type of laser is often used in medical procedures due to its ability to deliver concentrated light in a precise and controlled manner.
• This method involves inserting the laser via endoscope – a flexible tube with a light and camera attached – enabling the practitioner to view the area and perform the procedure without having to resort to more invasive surgery.

Results

• The endoscopic laser treatment method effectively drained the abscesses in both horses.
• Significant progress in the healing of the surgical sites was noted after just eleven days post-operation.
• Most importantly, this treatment method was successful in permanently eliminating the horses’ clinical signs related to the abscesses.

Conclusion

• The findings of this study serve to pioneer the use of neodymium:yttrium aluminum garnet lasers for the transendoscopic treatment of equine epiglottic abscesses.
• The successful outcome in terms of recovery and the return to racing signify that the approach could be used as a viable alternative to traditional, more invasive surgical techniques.