INGUINAL-HERNIAS IN HORSES

Inguinal hernias are found most commonly in neonatal foals and in adul t horses that are athletically active or used for breeding, although t here are distinct differences in the clinical presentation between the se two groups. Affected neonates may have a mass In the scrotal or ing uinal region, but they usually have normal vital signs and are apparen tly healthy with no signs of abdominal pain. Conversely, acute onset o f severe colic is generally seen in adult male horses because they hav e an accompanying obstruction and/or strangulation of the small intest ine. Consequently, inguinal hernia in an adult horse is usually consid ered an emergency, Ultrasonography can be helpful during initial manag ement in foals in defining the contents of the hernia as well as the n ormal inguinal structures; foals should also be examined by palpation. Physical examination of adult male horses with signs of colic should include assessment of the scrotal region and rectal examination of the caudal abdomen. Large inguinal hernias in neonates usually require su rgical repair, which consists of complete ablation of the external ing uinal ring and castration. Clients must understand that a good prognos is after this type of surgery may require castration of the horse. Sur gery in adult male horses with inguinal hernias may require scrotal an d ventral midline incisions to correct the abnormalities. Conservative therapy (e.g., reduction per rectum) in adult horses with inguinal he rnias is sometimes successful. This column discusses the initial manag ement, surgical principles, conservative therapy, and postoperative co nsiderations in horses with inguinal hernias.