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Peer-reviewed veterinary case report

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

Journal:
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
Year:
1991
Authors:
Tulleners, E P
Affiliation:
Department of Clinical Studies · United States
Species:
horse

Plain-English summary

Two Thoroughbred racehorses were found to have a fluid-filled lump (abscess) on the back of their throat, which was discovered using a special camera called an endoscope. Both horses were having trouble exercising, and one of them also had issues with their throat during eating and running, which caused coughing and unusual breathing sounds. The abscesses were treated using a laser to drain them, and after eleven days, the areas where the surgery was done looked healed. Both horses fully recovered and were able to return to racing successfully.

Abstract

A submucosal abscess, located on the dorsal surface of the epiglottis, was diagnosed in 2 Thoroughbred racehorses by use of endoscopy. Both horses had exercise intolerance. One horse had intermittent dorsal displacement of the soft palate, coughed while eating and galloping, and made an abnormal respiratory noise. Both abscesses were drained transendoscopically by use of a contact neodymium:yttrium aluminum garnet laser. Eleven days after surgery, the surgical sites appeared to have healed. Clinical signs resolved permanently, and both horses returned to successful racing careers.

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Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2071477/