Percutaneous lung biopsy in the horse

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Pulmonary Pathology
• Surgical Procedures

Background:

• Histologic examination of lung tissue is crucial for diagnosing equine respiratory diseases.
• Minimally invasive biopsy techniques are desirable for animal welfare and reduced complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of percutaneous lung biopsies using a Vim Tru-Cut needle in standing horses.
• To assess the quality of lung tissue obtained for histologic examination.

Main Methods:

• Percutaneous lung biopsies were performed on 20 horses using a Vim Tru-Cut needle.
• Procedures were conducted in standing horses under local anesthesia without sedation.
• Histologic examination of collected lung tissue specimens was performed.

Main Results:

• All lung tissue specimens were suitable for histologic examination, containing both pulmonary parenchyma and large airways.
• The only complication observed was mild hemoptysis in 2 horses (10%), which resolved without intervention.
• No gross abnormalities were noted at the biopsy sites post-procedure.

Conclusions:

• Percutaneous lung biopsy with a Vim Tru-Cut needle is a safe and effective diagnostic procedure in horses.
• The technique yields adequate tissue for histologic diagnosis with a low complication rate.
• This method offers a valuable minimally invasive option for equine lung diagnostics.