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Projectile dart foreign body in a horse
1Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center, Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Leesburg 22075.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|September 1, 1988
Summary
A pony experienced hind limb lameness due to a retained tranquilizer dart. Surgical removal of the foreign body resolved the lameness, highlighting risks associated with projectile syringes in animal capture.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Equine Surgery
- Toxicology
Background:
- Projectile dart syringes are utilized for chemical immobilization in animals.
- Anesthesia and sedation carry inherent risks, especially during capture procedures.
- Foreign body complications can arise from retained projectile materials.
Observation:
- A 3-year-old Welsh pony mare presented with chronic right hind limb lameness.
- The lameness began four months post-capture, following tranquilizer administration via a projectile dart syringe.
- Physical examination revealed a projectile dart foreign body as the cause of lameness.
Findings:
- Surgical exploration and removal of the retained dart foreign body were performed.
- The procedure was conducted under local anesthesia.
- Post-operative recovery showed significant improvement in the pony's lameness.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential complications, such as retained foreign bodies, associated with using projectile syringes for animal immobilization.
- Veterinarians and animal handlers must be aware of and communicate these risks to clients.
- Careful technique and appropriate follow-up are crucial to mitigate risks and ensure animal welfare.