SURGICAL REPAIR OF RECTOVAGINAL FISTULAS IN MARES - 12 CASES (1983-1991)

The case records of 12 mares at the Ontario and Atlantic Veterinary Co lleges were reviewed to evaluate the success rates of surgical techniq ues used to repair rectovaginal fistulae. A modified horizontal perine al technique was used in eight mares; it was unsuccessful in one mare, but the fistula was subsequently successfully repaired using the same technique. One rectovaginal fistula that was converted to a third-deg ree perineal laceration was successfully repaired on the third attempt , using the suture principles of the modified horizontal perineal tech nique. A modified transvaginal technique was used in three mares, in t wo of which it failed; their fistulae were subsequently converted to t hird-degree perineal lacerations and repaired using a one-stage closur e. We conclude that the modified horizontal perineal technique is a on e-stage procedure that is technically easy to perform, results in less tension on the suture lines, and is effective in modifying poor vulva r conformation.