Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Comparison of herniorrhaphy versus clamping of umbilical hernias in horses: a retrospective study of 93 cases (1982-1994).
- Journal:
- The Canadian veterinary journal = La revue veterinaire canadienne
- Year:
- 1996
- Authors:
- Riley, C B et al.
- Affiliation:
- Department of Veterinary Anesthesiology · Canada
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
This study looked at how two different methods for treating umbilical hernias in horses—herniorrhaphy (surgery to repair the hernia) and clamping (using a device to close the hernia)—compare in terms of complications. Researchers reviewed records from 93 cases and found that both methods had a similar rate of minor complications, with 19% of cases experiencing issues after treatment. Most of these complications were not serious and did not lead to significant health problems for the horses. Overall, the study suggests that both treatment options can be effective, with minor complications being a possibility but not a major concern.
Abstract
Many uncomplicated umbilical hernias have been managed successfully in foals by the application of a hernia clamp. Isolated reports of complications following clamp application have led some authors to suggest that it is an unsuitable method of treatment. Little information has been published comparing the complication rates associated with the use of hernia clamps and herniorrhaphy in the treatment of umbilical hernias. The purpose of this retrospective study was to report the characteristics of clinical cases of umbilical hernia and to compare the complication rates following these 2 treatment approaches. Information was collected from records or from owners to identify the occurrence of complications and owner satisfaction following treatment. Of 93 cases, 10 complicated and 18 uncomplicated hernias were treated by herniorrhaphy, 40 uncomplicated hernias were treated by clamping, 1 originally uncomplicated hernia was treated by both techniques, and 24 cases were untreated. Nineteen percent of uncomplicated hernias treated by herniorrhaphy, and 19% of those clamped developed minor complications. This study demonstrates that although minor complications may be associated with either technique, they generally do not result in significant morbidity.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8705974/