Upper Airway Abnormalities - Vet in Xenia | PONY EXPRESS VETERINARY HOSPITAL

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Equine Upper Airway Abnormalities

Diagnosis and Treatment

Restoring Clear Breathing for Your Equine Partner

Upper airway abnormalities in horses can be challenging for both the horse and its owner. They can cause issues such as decreased performance, labored breathing, and overall discomfort for your equine companion. Our team of dedicated equine specialists is well-equipped to diagnose and treat upper airway abnormalities, helping your horse breathe freely and perform at its best.

Understanding Upper Airway Abnormalities

Upper airway abnormalities in horses are conditions that affect the structures responsible for breathing and airflow in the nasal passages, throat, and larynx. These abnormalities can include:

Subepiglottic Cysts and Masses

Growths in the upper airway that obstruct airflow.

Dorsal Displacement of the Soft Palate (DDSP)

A condition where the soft palate moves abnormally, obstructing airflow.

Arytenoid Chondritis

Inflammation of the cartilage structures in the larynx, leading to restricted airflow.

Epiglottic Entrapment

The epiglottis becomes trapped in an abnormal position, interfering with breathing.

Roaring (Laryngeal Hemiplegia)

Paralysis of the larynx, causing a distinctive, high-pitched noise during exercise.

Understanding Upper Airway Abnormalities

Upper airway abnormalities in horses are conditions that affect the structures responsible for breathing and airflow in the nasal passages, throat, and larynx. These abnormalities can include:

Dorsal Displacement of the Soft Palate (DDSP)

A condition where the soft palate moves abnormally, obstructing airflow.

Epiglottic Entrapment

The epiglottis becomes trapped in an abnormal position, interfering with breathing.

Arytenoid Chondritis

Inflammation of the cartilage structures in the larynx, leading to restricted airflow.

Roaring (Laryngeal Hemiplegia)

Paralysis of the larynx, causing a distinctive, high-pitched noise during exercise.

Subepiglottic Cysts and Masses

Growths in the upper airway that obstruct airflow.

Surgical Procedures

For certain abnormalities like DDSP or epiglottic entrapment, surgical intervention may be recommended to correct the issue and restore normal breathing.

Comprehensive Evaluation

Our experienced veterinarians conduct a thorough examination, including an endoscopic evaluation of the upper airway, to pinpoint the specific issue.

Treatment Planning

Once diagnosed, we work with you to develop a tailored treatment plan. Treatment may involve medical management, surgery, or a combination of therapies, depending on the condition’s severity.

Our Approach to Diagnosis and Treatment

Our equine specialists employ state-of-the-art diagnostics and therapies to address upper airway abnormalities effectively.

Rehabilitation and Recovery

After surgery, we provide rehabilitation programs to help your horse regain strength and function, ensuring a successful recovery.