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33rd Annual Scientific Meeting proceedings


Stream: LA   |   Session: Large Animal Resident Forum
Date/Time: 06-07-2023 (18:00 - 18:15)   |   Location: Theatre Hall
Incisional complications after skin closure with stainless-steel skin staples compared to sutures in horses undergoing colic surgery.
Haion OH, Tatz AT, Dahan RD, Harel SH, Sutton GS, Kelmer GK*
Koret School of Veterinary Medicine - Veterinary Teaching Hospital, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel.

Introduction
Incisional complications following ventral midline celiotomy represent a challenge for equine surgeons. Preventative strategies and surgical techniques to minimize risks for incisional complications are continuously investigated, including a quest for an ideal surgical closure method. The objectives of the study were to compare the prevalence of incisional complications after skin closure with nylon sutures versus stainless-steel skin staples after ventral midline celiotomy for colic surgery in horses, and to assess additional risk factors for incisional complications.

Materials and Methods
One hundred and twenty three horses that underwent colic surgery between May 2012 and May 2014 and survived for >2 weeks were included in the study. Horses were allocated randomly to two groups- 65 horses had their incision closed by skin staples and 58 horses had their incision closed by skin sutures (using Nylon -0). Records and a follow-up questionnaire were used to determine in-hospital and post-hospital discharge incisional complications.

Results
Follow-up information was available in 119 of 123 horses. Four horses without follow-up were excluded. With strict inclusion definitions, incisional complications were recorded in 72% (86/119) of horses, including 70%(44/63) of the surgical staple skin closure group and 75% (42/56) of the Nylon sutures skin closure. Pregnancy and large colon intestinal lesion were a risk factor for incisional complications. Participation of surgeon 3 was found protective against incisional infection.

Conclusions
Although not significantly superior, the use of staples may serve as a valid alternative for ventral midline abdominal incision skin closure in horses. 

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