Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Use of a flotation tank to sling horses and cattle undergoing surgery to the limbs.
- Journal:
- Australian veterinary journal
- Year:
- 1981
- Authors:
- Smith, W N
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
Researchers have created a flotation tank system to help horses and cattle recover after limb surgery by reducing the weight on their legs. This method allows the animals to stay upright instead of lying down for long periods, which helps prevent skin sores. The flotation tank is generally well accepted by the animals, although some may experience hair loss in areas that stay in the water for a long time. This technique is now widely known as the "Queensland Sling."
Abstract
A system using a suitably sized flotation tank has been developed to reduce the weight that horses and cattle place upon their legs after undergoing surgery to their limbs. The system overcomes the need for the patient to lie down for long periods, thus preventing decubitus. The system is well tolerated with few side effects; after prolonged flotation alopecia may occur on those parts of the patient which remain continuously immersed in water. The method is now commonly referred to as the 'Queensland Sling'.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7337593/