Manual lymphatic drainage in the horse for treatment of the hindlimb - Part 2. Findings and treatment in horses affected with "chronic cellulitis"

Nine horses suffering from chronic cellulitis" were treated successfully wi th complex physical decompression therapy (CPDT). All horses had previously been treated unsuccessfully with conventional methods. The animals were tr eated with manual lymphatic drainage, compression-therapy and an exercise-p rogram. In ail affected limbs the reduction of edema (measured as volume) r eached ai least 50%. In three horses volume reduction was approaching 100%. No statement con yet be made concerning long term results. In three cases, documentation of the contribution of the lymphatics to the pathology of "c hronic cellulitis" was made using indirect lymphography, light-microscopy, and electronmicroscopy. The question is raised whether "chronic cellulitis" can be defined as a chronic lymphedema simular to the findings in humans. Other indications tor the CPDT in the horse are discussed.