Outcomes of horses treated with removal of a laryngoplasty prosthesis

Objectives:
(i) To determine the proportion of horses treated by laryngoplasty prosthesis removal (LPR) for complications associated with prosthetic laryngoplasty (LP),
(ii) to determine the reason for LPR, and (iii) to determine the outcome of horses undergoing LPR to manage iatrogenic coughing / dysphagia.

Study design:
Retrospective study

Sample Population:
Client-owned horses treated with LP (n=1202) and LPR (n=58)

Methods:
Clinical case records were reviewed to determine the number of horses treated with LP and LPR by the same surgeon. Historical, clinical, endoscopic and surgical data were extracted for those horses undergoing LPR. Long term outcome was assessed by questionnaire.

Results:
The proportion of horses treated with LP subsequently treated with LPR by the same surgeon was 3.5% (42/1202). Coughing / dysphagia was the reason for LPR in 90% (52/58) of horses. Sufficient follow-up to determine outcome in horses undergoing LPR for coughing / dysphagia was available in 32 horses. Arytenoid abduction grade at the time of LPR did not significantly influence clinical response (p=0.416). Presenting clinical signs resolved following LPR in 21/32 (66%) horses and 24/32 (75%) horses returned to exercise.

Conclusions:
Coughing / dysphagia was the most common reason for LPR. Clinical signs improved in the majority of horses following LPR.

Clinical significance:
Laryngoplasty prosthesis removal can be a useful treatment option for horses affected with unmanageable coughing / dysphagia caused by LP.