Use of Knotless Barbed Sutures in Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernioplasty in Horses: 40 Cases.
Authors: Vázquez Francisco J, Argüelles David, Muñoz Juan A, Genton Martin, Méndez Angulo José L, Climent Frederic, Roquet Imma, Iglesias Manuel, Velloso Álvarez Ana, Vitoria Arantza, Bulnes Fernando, Saitua Aritz, Romero Antonio, Ezquerra Javier, Prades Marta, López-Sanromán F Javier, Rossignol Fabrice
Journal: Animals : an open access journal from MDPI
Summary
# Editorial Summary Inguinal hernias represent a significant surgical challenge in equine practice, particularly when preserving testicular function and reproductive capability is desirable, yet traditional open approaches often necessitate castration. This retrospective analysis evaluated laparoscopic repair using knotless barbed sutures across 40 horses (59 vaginal ring closures total), including 44 cases of acquired inguinal hernia—of which 30 involved strangulated small intestine—alongside six prophylactic procedures. Barbed sutures proved effective whether deployed as monotherapy or in combination with additional techniques, with the minimally invasive approach successfully managing both non-strangulated and strangulated hernias whilst maintaining testicular viability. The findings suggest that laparoscopic hernioplasty with barbed sutures merits consideration as a standard surgical protocol for equine inguinal hernias, particularly in breeding stallions or young animals where preserving future reproductive potential outweighs the marginal increase in procedural complexity compared to conventional castration-inclusive repair.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •Knotless barbed sutures offer a reliable minimally invasive option for inguinal hernia repair in horses, particularly when testicle preservation is desired
- •Laparoscopic approach can be used for both emergency strangulated hernias and prophylactic closure in horses at risk
- •This technique should be considered a standard practice for inguinal hernia management in equine patients, especially stallions where reproductive function is a priority
Key Findings
- •Fifty-nine vaginal ring repairs were successfully closed using barbed sutures alone or in combination with other techniques across 40 cases
- •Thirty cases presented with strangulated small intestines (28 acquired, 2 congenital), while 4 had non-strangulated hernias
- •Laparoscopic hernioplasty with barbed sutures was effective and safe for managing inguinal hernias while preserving reproductive capability