Transendoscopic correction of epiglottic entrapment with a silicone-covered laser guide and diode laser in 29 horses.
Authors: Beste Karen J, Ortved Kyla F, Rossignol Fabrice, Ducharme Norm G
Journal: Veterinary surgery : VS
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Transendoscopic Laser Correction of Epiglottic Entrapment Epiglottic entrapment remains a significant airway obstruction problem in racehorses, and surgical correction traditionally relies on laser ablation techniques that carry risk of thermal damage to surrounding tissues. Beste and colleagues evaluated a novel approach in 29 Thoroughbred and Standardbred racehorses, using a silicone-covered laser guide to direct diode laser cutting of the subepiglottic membrane whilst protecting the underlying epiglottic cartilage during transendoscopic surgery. All horses achieved successful membrane release, with only mild postoperative complications reported: swelling in 12 horses and minor respiratory signs (coughing or nasal discharge) in 5 horses during the immediate recovery period. Return to racing rates were notably strong at 93%, with 96% of trainers satisfied with outcomes, suggesting comparable or superior results to conventional approaches. This technique merits serious consideration by equine surgeons as a refinement to traditional laser procedures, offering improved precision, reduced tissue trauma, and excellent prognosis for return to athletic function—particularly valuable for high-value racehorses where preservation of performance is paramount.
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Practical Takeaways
- •This technique offers a minimally invasive standing surgical option for epiglottic entrapment with high success rates and good return-to-racing outcomes comparable to or better than traditional approaches
- •Mild postoperative swelling and respiratory signs are expected but transient, allowing horses to resume training quickly
- •The silicone-covered laser guide reduces risk of iatrogenic cartilage damage while improving surgical precision during membrane transection
Key Findings
- •100% successful release of entrapping membrane in all 29 horses using silicone-covered laser guide and diode laser
- •93% of horses returned to racing postoperatively with 96% trainer satisfaction
- •Mild postoperative complications occurred in 17/29 horses (swelling in 12, coughing/nasal discharge in 5) during first few days