Early herniorrhaphy of large traumatic abdominal wounds in horses and mules

Surgical treatment of traumatic abdominal hernias is usually delayed for 2-3 months following injury. The residual defects are then repaired by herniorrhaphy or mesh herniorrhaphy.

To describe the outcome following herniorrhaphy (without a mesh) within 21 days of initial injury to repair external traumatic lateral abdominal hernias in horses and mules.

Descriptive case series.

Twenty-two cases were included. Surgical treatment involved exposure of the hernia sac and closing of the abdominal wall defect with interrupted Mayo mattress or cruciate sutures after reduction of the herniated organ into the peritoneal cavity. Data collected included cause and site of the hernia, surgical findings, immediate and long-term post operative complications, return to use, duration of convalescence and hernia recurrence.

Falling while crossing impassable pathways was the most common initial cause of the hernia (9/11 horses and 10/11 mules). Adhesion formation to underlying viscera was found intraoperatively in 2 cases. Uncomplicated healing occurred in all animals except 3 with suture abscesses and one with a subcutaneous seroma. At the time of follow-up (6-24 months after surgery), complete recovery without recurrence of herniation was achieved and animals had returned to their previous use.

Herniorrhaphy within 21 days using interrupted Mayo mattress or cruciate pattern sutures can be effective for treating external traumatic abdominal hernias in horses and mules. The Summary is available in Chinese - see Supporting Information.