Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Laparoscopic abdominal lavage for horses with peritonitis
By Cribb, Nicola C et al.·Published in The Canadian veterinary journal = La revue veterinaire canadienne·2021·Department of Clinical Studies, Canada·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Standing laparoscopic abdominal lavage using a suction-irrigation device in 2 horses with primary suppurative peritonitis.
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
Two horses were treated for a serious abdominal infection called primary suppurative peritonitis, which had caused them to lose weight over the past week or two. Tests showed a high number of white blood cells in their abdominal fluid, indicating infection. The veterinarians used a special device to wash out the abdomen while the horses were standing, which allowed them to see inside the abdomen clearly and clean it effectively. Both horses responded well to this treatment and recovered successfully.
Abstract
The use of a laparoscopic suction-irrigation device in 2 standing horses for lavage of the abdomen for the treatment of primary suppurative peritonitis is reported. Two horses were presented with a 1- to 2-week history of weight loss. Abdominocentesis revealed highly elevated total nucleated cell count. Peritoneal lavage systems were placed in both horses, but complications prevented adequate lavage. Both horses underwent standing laparoscopy; the dorsal abdomen was explored and the abdomen was profusely lavaged, using a suction-irrigation device. The procedure was efficient and allowed adequate visualization of the dorsal abdomen and lavage. A successful outcome was achieved in both cases. Key clinical message: Lavage of the abdomen of horses with peritonitis can be achieved under standing sedation, using a laparoscopic technique. In appropriately selected cases, this allows for adequate visualization of the dorsal abdomen and efficacious abdominal lavage.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33867554/