33rd Annual Scientific Meeting proceedings

INTRODUCTION

Keratomas (KTs) are space-occupying lesions originating from the stratum germinativum extending to the inner hoof capsule. This can cause recurrent abscessation and lameness. The treatment of choice is surgical excision. Excision can be performed by complete hoof wall resection (CR) or partial hoof wall resection (PR) under general anaesthesia (GA). The outcome and complications after KTs removal in horses under standing sedation (SS) and local anaesthesia (LA) has not been reported.

The objectives of this study were: to describe the surgical technique for KTs removal under SS and LA, to report complications and long-term outcome.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Horses undergoing KT excision under SS and LA were included. Long-term follow-up information was obtained by telephone questionnaire.

RESULTS

Twenty-one horses met the inclusion criteria. Duration of lameness ranged from one to 289 days (mean 85 days). Degree of lameness varied from zero to grade 4/5 (AAEP) (mean 3/5).  All horses underwent preoperative radiographic examination and 9/21 underwent MRI examination. Surgical treatment consisted of PR in all horses.

Complications were marked lameness in the early postoperative period (2/21 horses) and exuberant granulation tissue (2/21 horses).

Long-term follow-up information was available for 18 horses, 16/18 (89%) horses returned to previous level of exercise. Recurrence of the KT was suspected in one horse.

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSIONS

Outcome and complication rate is similar or lower to previous reports. Keratomas excision under SS and LA is a safer alternative to GA.