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Thoracic trauma in foals: post mortem findings
Author(s) -
SCHAMBOURG M. A.,
LAVERTY S.,
MULLIM S.,
FOGARTY U. M.,
HALLEY J.
Publication year - 2003
Publication title -
equine veterinary journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.82
H-Index - 87
eISSN - 2042-3306
pISSN - 0425-1644
DOI - 10.2746/042516403775467478
Subject(s) - medicine , thoracic cavity , rib cage , foal , diaphragmatic rupture , thoracic trauma , diaphragmatic hernia , pathological , surgery , thoracic wall , diaphragmatic breathing , horse , hernia , blunt , anatomy , pathology , alternative medicine , archaeology , history , paleontology , biology
Summary Reasons for performing study : Thoracic trauma occurs in newborn foals and may cause associated clinical signs; this condition remains poorly documented. Objectives : The purpose of this study was to describe the pathological features of thoracic trauma in newborn foals presented for necropsy examination between 1990 and 2000. Methods : Necropsy reports of foals with thoracic trauma from 1990–2000 were reviewed. Subject details, clinical signs, thoracic and abdominal lesions were noted and analysed statistically. Results : Sixty‐seven (9%) of 760 necropsied foals had thoracic trauma. In 19 foals, fractured ribs were considered to be the cause of death ( Group A ). The remaining foals had fractured ribs ( Group B , n = 20) or rib contusions ( Group C , n = 28) that were incidental findings. Ribs 3 to 8 accounted for 86% of the traumatised bones. The most common site of injury was the costochondral junction and an area immediately above it (94%). In Group A , all but 2 foals died within the first 8 days post partum. Haemothorax and subsequent pulmonary collapse was cited most commonly as the cause of death (53%). Diaphragmatic rupture and hernia (n = 2) also occurred. Conclusions : The focal site, consistent location and presence of lesions during the first week post partum , all suggest that thoracic trauma in newborn foals probably occurs during parturition. Potential relevance : The description of lesions and site of occurrence of thoracic trauma in foals will increase awareness and improve the diagnosis and treatment of this life threatening condition.