Common Equine procedures

What is the vacutainer system?

If using a Vacutainer, screw the needle into the holder and preload the tube without puncturing it. Once the needle is inserted into the vein and stabilized, push the Vacutainer tube into the hub. Blood will flow freely into the tube due to negative pressure. Multiple tubes can be filled by replacing filled tubes with fresh ones.

What is a normal PCV in horses?

32-35%

What can low PCV ( anemia) indicate?

A low PCV can indicate anemia, which may be caused by various factors like blood loss, immune-mediated disease, infections, or cancers.

What does a high PCV indicate?

An elevated PCV can be due to dehydration or the spleen releasing more red blood cells into the circulation due to excitement or stress before the blood sample was taken.

What are normal blood lactate levels in horses?

1-2 mmol

What can elevated lactate levels indicate?

Colic, sepsis, and shock

What is the purpose of a coggins test?

Coggins test is a blood test to identify if a horse is a carrier of Equine Infectious Anemia, a viral disease found in horses. A negative Coggins test is required for all travel between states and at most equine facilities.

What is EIA?

Equine infectious anemia, a viral disease spread by insect bites and poor hygiene practices, contaminated needles, and other instruments

What are the 3 places IM injections can be given in a horse.

The rear, neck, and petrol muscle (chest)

What is the nuchal ligament?

A crucial for supporting the head and neck, and it's important to avoid injecting into it during intramuscular (IM) injections because it has a poor blood supply, potentially hindering proper drug absorption.

What is Clostridial myonecrosis?

A bacterial infection that can cause rapid swelling, pain, and gas pockets under the skin.

What is an Arthrocentesis?

Defined as the insertion of a needle into a joint space for the purpose of removing joint fluid for diagnostic purposes or medication injection.

What is periocular swelling?

This is a common emergency presentation. Potential causes include traumatic blepharitis, conjunctivitis (allergic, eosinophilic, neoplastic), foreign material embedded in tissues, orbital cellulitis, inflamed orbital neoplasia, orbital fractures, corneal disease, and uveitis.

What is the SPL system?

A sub palpebral lavage (SPL) system is a long tube that delivers medication to a horse's cornea. It's used to treat serious eye conditions.

What is sheath cleaning?

The process of cleaning a gelding or stallion's sheath, the area around the penis, by removing accumulated smegma (a natural oily substance) and debris to prevent irritation, infection, and potential urinary issues, often referred to as "beans".

What are polo wraps?

A compressive/securing layer, along with other bandages and boots, provide protection and support.

What is a standing wrap?

Used to prevent swelling and edema. The compression helps to reduce swelling, protection while standing, and support.

What are the 2 main layers of the standing wrap system?

Pillow wrap ( padding layer) and standing wrap ( compressive/securing layer)

The result in improper bandaging is commonly called?

Bandage bow, or bowed tendon