1
|
Massie SL, Léguillette R. Upper airway endoscopy in exercising horses: Findings in 164 barrel racing horses with respiratory clinical signs and/or poor performance. Vet J 2023; 300-302:106038. [PMID: 37865154 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2023.106038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
Barrel racing involves sprinting through a cloverleaf pattern in under 20 s. The prevalence of upper airway obstructions (UAO) in barrel racers is unknown, thus a retrospective analysis of 164 client-owned horses referred for overground endoscopy (OGE) between 2014 and 2022 was performed. Referring complaints included respiratory noise, cough, epistaxis, behaviour (owner reported stress/anxiety, refusal to enter arena, excessive head shaking), and/or poor performance. Horses performed a standardized exercise test with low and high-speed components. Videoendoscopic recordings were systematically scored by one experienced clinician. Exercising abnormalities included palatal instability (PI), intermittent dorsal displacement of the soft palate (iDDSP), nasopharyngeal collapse (NPC), recurrent laryngeal neuropathy (RLN), ventro-medial luxation of the apex of the corniculate process of the arytenoid (VLAC), medial deviation of the aryepiglottic fold (MDAF), vocal fold collapse (VFC), and cricotracheal ligament collapse. Associations between co-existing UAOs, age and sex were examined (McNemar's test; logistic regression; P < 0.05). During exercise, 24/164 (15%) horses had no UAO. In the remaining 140 horses, 56% had two or more. NPC was observed in 68/140 (49%), PI in 59/140 (42%), iDDSP in 55/140 (39%), VFC in 38/140 (27%), RLN in 27/140 (19%), VLAC in 14/140 (10%), MDAF in 8/140 (6%) and cricotracheal ligament collapse in 8/140 (6%). Nasopharyngeal collapse and RLN were primarily Grade 3 and Grade B, respectively. Associations exist between several co-existing UAOs, but not age or sex. Abnormalities were more frequent at low-speed (55%) than high-speed (22%), highlighting the importance of OGEs at different exercise intensities. Multiple UAOs appear common in barrel racers with clinical presentations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S L Massie
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N4Z6, Canada
| | - R Léguillette
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N4Z6, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lo Feudo CM, Stucchi L, Conturba B, Stancari G, Zucca E, Ferrucci F. Medical causes of poor performance and their associations with fitness in Standardbred racehorses. J Vet Intern Med 2023; 37:1514-1527. [PMID: 37148147 PMCID: PMC10365054 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.16734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poor performance is a multifactorial syndrome of racehorses, commonly associated with subclinical disorders, which can be diagnosed by exercise testing. OBJECTIVES Describe the prevalence of medical causes of poor performance in Standardbreds unassociated with lameness, and evaluate their relationships with fitness variables measured by exercise treadmill test. ANIMALS Hospital population of 259 nonlame Standardbred trotters referred for poor performance. METHODS The horses' medical records were retrospectively reviewed. Horses underwent a diagnostic protocol including resting examination, plasma lactate concentration, treadmill test with continuous ECG and assessment of fitness variables, creatine kinase activity, treadmill endoscopy, postexercise tracheobronchoscopy, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), and gastroscopy. The prevalence of different disorders was evaluated, including cardiac arrhythmias, exertional myopathies, dynamic upper airway obstructions (DUAOs), exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH), moderate equine asthma (MEA), and gastric ulcers (EGUS). The associations of these disorders with fitness variables were investigated individually and using multivariable models. RESULTS Moderate equine asthma and EGUS were the most common disorders, followed by EIPH, DUAOs, cardiac arrhythmias, and exertional myopathies. Hemosiderin score was positively correlated with BAL neutrophils, eosinophils, and mast cells; increased creatine kinase activity was associated with BAL neutrophilia, DUAOs, premature complexes, and squamous gastric disease. Treadmill velocity at a plasma lactate concentration of 4 mmol/L and at heart rate of 200 beats per minute was negatively affected by BAL neutrophilia, multiple DUAOs, exertional myopathies, and squamous gastric disease. CONCLUSIONS The multifactorial nature of poor performance was confirmed, with MEA, DUAOs, myopathies and EGUS representing the main diseases involved in fitness impairment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara M. Lo Feudo
- Equine Sports Medicine Laboratory “Franco Tradati”, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal SciencesUniversità degli Studi di MilanoLodiItaly
| | - Luca Stucchi
- Equine Unit, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal SciencesUniversità degli Studi di MilanoLodiItaly
| | - Bianca Conturba
- Equine Unit, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal SciencesUniversità degli Studi di MilanoLodiItaly
| | - Giovanni Stancari
- Equine Unit, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal SciencesUniversità degli Studi di MilanoLodiItaly
| | - Enrica Zucca
- Equine Sports Medicine Laboratory “Franco Tradati”, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal SciencesUniversità degli Studi di MilanoLodiItaly
| | - Francesco Ferrucci
- Equine Sports Medicine Laboratory “Franco Tradati”, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal SciencesUniversità degli Studi di MilanoLodiItaly
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lean NE, Sole-Guitart A, Ahern BJ. Laryngeal tie-forward in standing sedated horses. Vet Surg 2023; 52:229-237. [PMID: 36448601 PMCID: PMC10100013 DOI: 10.1111/vsu.13920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the feasibility and describe the clinical experience of performing laryngeal tie-forward (LTF) in standing horses unaffected (experimental) and affected (clinical) by intermittent dorsal displacement of the soft palate (iDDSP). STUDY DESIGN Experimental study and case series. ANIMALS Five normal experimental controls and five client owned horses affected by iDDSP. METHODS Standing LTF was performed and evaluated in five experimental horses and five clinical cases diagnosed with iDDSP. Standing LTF was performed under endoscopic guidance with horses sedated and the surgical site desensitized with local anesthetic solution. Short term outcome was assessed using radiography, resting and (in clinical cases) dynamic upper respiratory tract (URT) endoscopy. RESULTS Standing LTF was well tolerated and completed in all horses. Radiographic assessment demonstrated that compared to preoperatively, the basihyoid bone and thyrohyoid-thyroid articulation were positioned dorsally (9.6 mm, p = .006 and 20.4 mm, p = .007, respectively) at 2 days postoperatively. During repeat dynamic URT endoscopy at 48 hours postoperatively, 3/5 horses showed resolution of iDDSP and 2/5 marked improvement. One horse experienced brief iDDSP associated with neck flexion which corrected after swallowing. The second achieved a greater speed and total distance prior to iDDSP. CONCLUSIONS Standing LTF did not incur any major peri- or postoperative complications. The laryngohyoid apparatus was repositioned dorsally and in a small case series had a similar surgical effect on laryngeal position. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Standing LTF is feasible, mitigates the risk of general anesthesia related complications and reduces cost.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natasha E Lean
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton, Queensland, Australia
| | - Albert Sole-Guitart
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton, Queensland, Australia
| | - Benjamin J Ahern
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Dillon HM, O'Brien EJO, Feeney C. Genipin treatment of equine palatal dysfunction: A preliminary study of safety and efficacy. EQUINE VET EDUC 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/eve.13689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Cormac Feeney
- Troytown GreyAbbey Equine Veterinary Services Kildare Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Upper and Lower Airways Evaluation and Its Relationship with Dynamic Upper Airway Obstruction in Racehorses. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12121563. [PMID: 35739899 PMCID: PMC9219429 DOI: 10.3390/ani12121563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Dynamic upper airway obstructions (DUAO) are common in racehorses, but their pathogenetic mechanisms have not been completely clarified yet. Multiple studies suggest that alterations of the pharyngo-laryngeal region visible at resting endoscopy may be predictive of the onset of DUAO, and the development of DUAO may be associated with pharyngeal lymphoid hyperplasia (PLH), lower airway inflammation (LAI) and exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH). The present study aims to investigate the possible relationship between the findings of a complete resting evaluation of the upper and lower airways and DUAO. In this retrospective study, 360 racehorses (Standardbreds and Thoroughbreds) referred for poor performance or abnormal respiratory noises were enrolled and underwent a diagnostic protocol including resting and high-speed treadmill endoscopy, cytological examination of the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and radiographic assessment of the epiglottis length. In this population, epiglottis flaccidity was associated with dorsal displacement of the soft palate, while no relationship was detected between DUAO and epiglottis length. No associations were detected between DUAO and PLH, LAI or EIPH. In conclusion, it is likely that epiglottis plays a role in upper airway stability, while airways inflammation does not seem to be involved in the pathogenesis of DUAO.
Collapse
|
6
|
Lo Feudo CM, Stucchi L, Cavicchioli P, Stancari G, Conturba B, Zucca E, Ferrucci F. Association between dynamic upper airway obstructions and fitness parameters in Standardbred racehorses during high-speed treadmill exercise. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2022; 260:1343-1350. [DOI: 10.2460/javma.22.02.0072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the association between the severity of dynamic upper airway obstruction (DUAO) and selected fitness parameters in Standardbred racehorses measured by treadmill test.
ANIMALS
191 Standardbred racehorses that underwent a standardized diagnostic protocol for poor performance evaluation between 2002 and 2021 at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Milan.
PROCEDURES
Horses underwent a diagnostic protocol including clinical examination, lameness evaluation, laboratory analyses, ECG, resting upper airway endoscopy, metabolic incremental treadmill test, high-speed treadmill endoscopy, postexercise tracheobronchoscopy, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid cytology. On the basis of findings of the high-speed treadmill endoscopy, horses were divided into the following groups: no DUAO, mild DUAO (medial deviation of the aryepiglottic folds or epiglottic entrapment), severe DUAO (dorsal displacement of the soft palate, nasopharyngeal collapse, dynamic laryngeal collapse, or epiglottic retroversion), and multiple DUAOs (different forms of DUAO occurring concomitantly). Fitness parameters, measured by incremental treadmill test, included speed at a heart rate of 200 bpm (V200), speed and heart rate at a lactate concentration of 4 mmol/L (VLa4, HRLa4), peak lactate, maximum speed, maximum hematocrit, and minimum pH. Data were compared between groups by use of descriptive and statistical analyses.
RESULTS
Horses affected by severe or multiple DUAOs showed lower V200 and VLa4, compared to the no-DUAO group; horses with multiple DUAOs also had higher peak lactate concentrations compared to horses without DUAOs.
CLINICAL RELEVANCE
While mild forms of DUAO do not affect athletic capacity, severe forms of DUAO and multiple DUAOs may lead to reduced fitness in Standardbred racehorses by impairing aerobic capacity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara M. Lo Feudo
- Equine Sports Medicine Laboratory “Franco Tradati,” Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Lodi, Italy
| | - Luca Stucchi
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Lodi, Italy
| | - Pietra Cavicchioli
- Equine Sports Medicine Laboratory “Franco Tradati,” Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Lodi, Italy
| | - Giovanni Stancari
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Lodi, Italy
| | - Bianca Conturba
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Lodi, Italy
| | - Enrica Zucca
- Equine Sports Medicine Laboratory “Franco Tradati,” Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Lodi, Italy
| | - Francesco Ferrucci
- Equine Sports Medicine Laboratory “Franco Tradati,” Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Lodi, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Burns JJ, MacMillan KM. Poor performance due to epiglottic retroversion in a Standardbred trotter. EQUINE VET EDUC 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/eve.13429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J. J. Burns
- Department of Health Management Atlantic Veterinary College University of Prince Edward Island Charlottetown Canada
| | - K. M. MacMillan
- Department of Health Management Atlantic Veterinary College University of Prince Edward Island Charlottetown Canada
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Weller D, Franklin S, White P, Shea G, Fenner K, Wilson B, Wilkins C, McGreevy P. The Reported Use of Tongue-Ties and Nosebands in Thoroughbred and Standardbred Horse Racing-A Pilot Study. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11030622. [PMID: 33652950 PMCID: PMC7996875 DOI: 10.3390/ani11030622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Tongue-ties (TTs) are commonly used in racing to restrain a horse’s tongue to aid a rider’s/driver’s control of the horse and optimise upper airway function. Nosebands (NBs) may also be employed for similar purposes. This article reports on a survey that asked people involved in Thoroughbred (TB) and Standardbred (SB) racing whether they used TTs and NBs and, if they did, the reasons for their use, the preferred design of device, the devices’ perceived effectiveness at achieving the respondents’ desired outcome(s), any complications due to their use and whether or not these complications altered their decision to use a particular type of TT or NB. A total of 112 participants involved with TB and SB racing answered TT questions. It revealed that respondents who used TTs believed them to be very or extremely effective at preventing the tongue from moving over the bit and improving upper airway function. Both physical and behavioural complications due to the use of a TT were reported. The likelihood of a respondent reporting a complication due to TT use increased with every minute of reported application and a nine-minute increment in the reported duration of application doubled the odds of a respondent reporting a behavioural complication. The findings of this study should be considered only as those of a pilot study and should be interpreted with caution due to the small number of responses. Abstract This article reports on the results of a survey of racehorse trainers (n = 112) outlining the reasons for tongue-tie (TT) and noseband (NB) use by Thoroughbred trainers (TBTs) (n = 72) and Standardbred trainers (SBTs) (n = 40). The study also investigated the reported effectiveness of TTs and possible complications arising from their use. Tongue-tie use was reported by 62.5% (n = 70) of racehorse trainers. The reasons for TT use varied between TBTs and SBTs. For TBTs, the most common reason for TT use was to prevent or reduce airway obstruction (72.3%, n = 34), followed closely by to prevent or reduce airway noise (55.3%, n = 16). Standardbred trainers assigned equal importance for TT use [to prevent or reduce airway obstruction (69.6%, n = 16) and to prevent the horse from moving its tongue over the bit (69.6%, n = 16)]. Tongue-ties were considered significantly less effective at improving performance than at reducing airway obstruction and preventing the tongue from moving over the bit (t = −2.700, p = 0.0007). For respondents who used both TTs and NBs, there was a mild to moderate positive association between the reasons for using TTs and NBs. Of the 70 TT-using respondents, 51.4% (n = 36) recorded having encountered either a physical or behavioural complication due to TT use, with redness/bruising of the tongue (20.0%, n = 14) being the most common physical complication reported. Duration of use influenced the risk of observing complications. The likelihood of a respondent reporting a behavioural complication due to TT use increased with every minute of reported application and a nine-minute increment in application period doubled the odds of a respondent reporting a complication. Tightness was a risk factor for physical complications: Checking TT tightness by noting the tongue as not moving was associated with increased reporting of physical complications (OR = 6.59; CI 1.1–67.5). This pilot study provides some insight into how and why TTs are applied by some racehorse trainers, and the potential risks associated with their use. A further study of a larger cohort is recommended because these results are valid for only the 112 trainers who responded and cannot be generalized to the equine industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dominic Weller
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (P.W.); (G.S.); (K.F.); (B.W.); (P.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Samantha Franklin
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, 1454 Mudla Wirra Road, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia;
| | - Peter White
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (P.W.); (G.S.); (K.F.); (B.W.); (P.M.)
| | - Glenn Shea
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (P.W.); (G.S.); (K.F.); (B.W.); (P.M.)
| | - Kate Fenner
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (P.W.); (G.S.); (K.F.); (B.W.); (P.M.)
| | - Bethany Wilson
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (P.W.); (G.S.); (K.F.); (B.W.); (P.M.)
| | | | - Paul McGreevy
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (P.W.); (G.S.); (K.F.); (B.W.); (P.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Joó K, Duque Betancourt D, Vasquez Marin T, Parra Moyano LA. Evaluation of Overground Endoscopy Findings in Colombian Criollo Paso Horses. J Equine Vet Sci 2021; 99:103374. [PMID: 33781434 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2021.103374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The dynamic upper airway functional (URT) problems of Colombian paso horses (CPH) have not been investigated in literature up to date. These horses perform special walking gaits with high poll flexion of the neck. Our goal is to evaluate the upper airway mechanics in CPH, showing abnormal respiratory sounds and poor performance during exercise. Resting and overground endoscopy was performed in 40 CPHs. Statistical analyses were performed using the sciPy package. One-tailed Fisher exact tests were used to check for positive contingency between each pair of upper respiratory tract disorder (P < .05). Arytenoid cartilage collapse was observed in 35 of 40 cases during exercise. Among these, dynamic laryngeal collapse (DLC) was the most significant finding, but ventromedial luxation of the apex of the corniculate process of the arytenoid and recurrent laryngeal neuropathy was also observed. Dorsal displacement of the soft palate was only detected in 4 of 40 cases. DLC was significantly associated with vocal cord collapse, nasopharyngeal collapse, and medial collapse of the margins of the epiglottis, and medial collapse of the margins of the epiglottis was associated with nasopharyngeal collapse. DLC is only a typical feature in some special breeds worldwide. We suggest that the extensive poll flexion and the relatively small laryngeal lumen and high intensitivity workload are the most important predisposing factors of DLC. Ventromedial luxation of the apex of the corniculate process of the arytenoid was over-represented in our caseload, compared with other studies. Whereas, despite the intensive workload, dorsal displacement of the soft palate was relatively uncommon. We presume that this could also be tailored to the high poll flexion performed during the special gaits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kinga Joó
- Szent István University, Kaposvár Campus, Doctoral School in Animal Science, Kaposvár, Hungary.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Cercone M, Olsen E, Perkins JD, Cheetham J, Mitchell LM, Ducharme NG. Investigation into pathophysiology of naturally occurring palatal instability and intermittent dorsal displacement of the soft palate (DDSP) in racehorses: Thyro-hyoid muscles fatigue during exercise. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0224524. [PMID: 31652282 PMCID: PMC6814218 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0224524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Exercise induced intermittent dorsal displacement of the soft palate (DDSP) is a common cause of airway obstruction and poor performance in racehorses. The definite etiology is still unclear, but through an experimental model, a role in the development of this condition was identified in the dysfunction of the thyro-hyoid muscles. The present study aimed to elucidate the nature of this dysfunction by investigating the spontaneous response to exercise of the thyro-hyoid muscles in racehorses with naturally occurring DDSP. Intramuscular electrodes were implanted in the thyro-hyoid muscles of nine racehorses, and connected to a telemetric unit for electromyographic monitoring implanted subcutaneously. The horses were recruited based on upper airway function evaluated through wireless endoscopy during exercise. Five horses, with normal function, were used as control; four horses were diagnosed as DDSP-affected horses based on repeated episodes of intermittent dorsal displacement of the soft palate. The electromyographic activity of the thyro-hyoid muscles recorded during incremental exercise tests on a high-speed treadmill was analyzed to measure the mean electrical activity and the median frequency of the power spectrum, thereafter subjected to wavelet decomposition. The affected horses had palatal instability with displacement on repeated exams prior to surgical implantation. Although palatal instability persisted after surgery, only two of these horses displaced the palate after instrumentation. The electromyographic traces from this group of four horses showed, at highest exercise intensity, a decrease in mean electrical activity and median power frequency, with progressive decrease in the contribution of the high frequency wavelets, consistent with development of thyro-hyoid muscle fatigue. The results of this study identified fatigue as the main factor leading to exercise induced palatal instability and DDSP in a group of racehorses. Further studies are required to evaluate the fiber type composition and metabolic characteristics of the thyro-hyoid muscles that could predispose to fatigue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Cercone
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Emil Olsen
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Services, Royal Veterinary College, London, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Justin D. Perkins
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Services, Royal Veterinary College, London, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Cheetham
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Lisa M. Mitchell
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Norm G. Ducharme
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Soft Palate Modification Using a Collagen Crosslinking Reagent for Equine Dorsal Displacement of the Soft Palate and Other Upper Airway Breathing Disorders. Int J Biomater 2019; 2019:9310890. [PMID: 31057624 PMCID: PMC6463583 DOI: 10.1155/2019/9310890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanical properties of the soft palate can be associated with breathing abnormalities. Dorsal displacement of the soft palate (DDSP) is a naturally occurring equine soft palate disorder caused by displacement of the caudal edge of the soft palate. Snoring and a more serious, sometimes life-threatening, condition called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are forms of sleep-related breathing disorders in humans which may involve the soft palate. The goal of this study was to investigate the effect of injecting the protein crosslinker genipin into the soft palate to modify its mechanical properties for the treatment of equine DDSP with potential implications for the treatment of snoring and OSA in humans. Ex vivo experiments consisted of mechanical testing and a wind tunnel study to examine the effect of genipin on the mechanical properties, displacement, and vibration of equine soft palates. A pilot in vivo study was completed using DDSP and control horses to test the safety and effectiveness of injecting a genipin reagent into the soft palate. The wind tunnel testing demonstrated a greater than 50% decrease in transient deformation and a greater than 33% decrease in steady-state vibrations for all doses of genipin tested. Ultimate tensile stress, yield stress, and Young's modulus were higher in the genipin-treated distal soft palate specimens by 52%, 53%, and 63%, respectively. The pilot in vivo study showed a reduction of snoring loudness in all DDSP horses and elimination of DDSP in at least one of three horses. The difficulty of using a 1-meter-long endoscopic injection needle contributed to a consistent overinjection of the equine soft palates, causing excessive stretching (pillowing) and related degradation of the tissue. These ex vivo and in vivo results demonstrated reduced vibration amplitude and flaccidity and increased strength of genipin-treated soft palates, suggesting that genipin crosslinking could become an effective and safe treatment for soft palate related breathing abnormalities.
Collapse
|
12
|
McGivney CL, Sweeney J, Gough KF, Hill EW, Katz LM. Serial evaluation of resting and exercising overground endoscopic examination results in young Thoroughbreds with no treatment intervention. Equine Vet J 2018; 51:192-197. [DOI: 10.1111/evj.12994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. L. McGivney
- UCD School of Agriculture and Food Science University College Dublin Belfield, Dublin Ireland
| | - J. Sweeney
- UCD School of Business University College Dublin Belfield, Dublin Ireland
| | - K. F. Gough
- UCD School of Agriculture and Food Science University College Dublin Belfield, Dublin Ireland
| | - E. W. Hill
- UCD School of Agriculture and Food Science University College Dublin Belfield, Dublin Ireland
| | - L. M. Katz
- UCD, School of Veterinary Medicine University College Dublin Belfield, Dublin Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
McGivney CL, Sweeney J, Gough KF, Hill EW, Katz LM. Impact of pharyngeal endoscopic tip placement and water flushing interval on upper respiratory tract disorders in horses undergoing overground endoscopy. Equine Vet J 2018; 51:173-178. [PMID: 29981190 DOI: 10.1111/evj.12991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endoscopic tip placement in the pharynx and water flushing interval (FI) may affect exercising upper respiratory tract (URT) endoscopic results. OBJECTIVES To determine associations between the endoscopic tip position in the pharynx and automated FI with overground endoscopic (OGE) results. STUDY DESIGN Randomised balanced 2X5 factorial design. METHODS A total of n = 200 horses undergoing OGE were randomly assigned into 10 groups (n = 20/group) of different automated endoscopic FIs (no flushing, 60, 120, 180, 240 s) with the endoscope tip positioned either rostrally (position A) or caudally (position B) in the pharynx. Endoscopic videos were analysed and all URT abnormalities graded using published scales. Disorders with ≤10% prevalence were excluded from the final analysis with only arytenoid asymmetry at exercise (AAex), vocal fold collapse (VFC), palatal dysfunction (PD) and medial deviation of the aryepiglottic folds (MDAF) included. The association of endoscope position and FI with URT disorders was assessed using ordinal regression models with P≤0.05 significant. RESULTS Endoscope tip positioning was significantly associated with PD grading (P = 0.002), with 63/100 horses diagnosed with PD in position A and 45/100 in position B. No other significant direct associations between URT disease and endoscope tip position were identified, although interactions between exercise velocity and endoscope position affected MDAF grade. FI was not directly associated with alterations in disorder grading, although interactions between exercise velocity and FI appeared to affect MDAF grade. MAIN LIMITATIONS The same horse was not evaluated under each test condition potentially resulting in sample bias. Interactions between disorders were not evaluated. The sample size was insufficient to conclusively explore relationships between all factors and disorder grading. CONCLUSIONS Position of the endoscope tip within the pharynx appears to affect grading of PD during OGE examination. Exercise velocity may affect MDAF grade through interactions with endoscope position and FI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C L McGivney
- UCD School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - J Sweeney
- UCD School of Business, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - K F Gough
- UCD School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - E W Hill
- UCD School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - L M Katz
- UCD School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Foreman J. Use of technological innovations in broadening the application of equine exercise physiology. COMPARATIVE EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY 2017. [DOI: 10.3920/cep160025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The quadrennial International Conference on Equine Exercise Physiology (ICEEP) allows focused presentations of a variety of horse exercise- and performance-related research data in cardiorespiratory, muscle, biomechanics, nutrition, genomics, and applied physiology. The most diverse section of the ICEEP meeting has been termed variously ‘Applied Exercise Physiology’ (ICEEP 8 and 9), ‘Applied Physiology: Training Methods, Exercise Testing and Selection’ (ICEEP 7), or ‘Applied Physiology of Athletic Performance’ (ICEEP 6 and earlier). The next ICEEP meeting is scheduled to be held in Australia in 2018. In this subspeciality of equine exercise physiology, scientists attempt to apply or put into practical field use the techniques and tools developed in the more basic sciences in order to assess the performance, training, and injury of horses working and performing under true, non-laboratory conditions. The real test of the value of this subspeciality will be the increased application and sustainability of the use of laboratory techniques in the assessment of equine athletes in field settings. This review summarises exercise physiology findings prior to the widespread use of equine laboratory treadmills which have tethered investigators to the laboratory, and explains and illustrates newer, more portable, often digital technological developments which have allowed investigations to move out of the laboratory and back to the field setting where horses train and compete on a daily basis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J.H. Foreman
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1008 West Hazelwood Drive, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
McKenzie E. Foundations of performance – factors that contribute to excellence in equine exercise. COMPARATIVE EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY 2017. [DOI: 10.3920/cep170022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Horses are renowned for their incredible capacity for a range of athletic activities, and participation in athletic events arguably represents the most critical strut of the equine industry. Successful performance is typically a primary focus during participation in competitive athletic events, and relies upon a variety of innate physiological and structural factors of the athlete. However, a wide range of external factors also influence performance, and many of these can be readily manipulated. Therefore, thorough assessment of the individual’s inherent capacity for a specific athletic discipline must be combined with optimisation of external factors including nutrition and training to promote excellent performance. Recent progress in methods of athlete selection and monitoring of training responses are assisting continued improvements in equine performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E. McKenzie
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, 227 Magruder Hall, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
|
17
|
Carmalt JL, Johanssen B, Waldner C. Comparisons Between Staphylectomy and Tie-Forward Procedures in Combination with a Sternothyroideus Myotenectomy for the Treatment of Intermittent Dorsal Displacement of the Soft Palate: An Observational Study. Vet Surg 2016; 45:816-23. [DOI: 10.1111/vsu.12518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2015] [Accepted: 04/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- James L. Carmalt
- Hallands Djursjukhus; Slöinge Sweden
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine; University of Saskatchewan; Saskatoon Canada
| | | | - Cheryl Waldner
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine; University of Saskatchewan; Saskatoon Canada
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Couëtil LL, Cardwell JM, Gerber V, Lavoie JP, Léguillette R, Richard EA. Inflammatory Airway Disease of Horses--Revised Consensus Statement. J Vet Intern Med 2016; 30:503-15. [PMID: 26806374 PMCID: PMC4913592 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.13824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 251] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Revised: 12/07/2015] [Accepted: 12/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this manuscript is to revise and update the previous consensus statement on inflammatory airway disease (IAD) in horses. Since 2007, a large number of scientific articles have been published on the topic and these new findings have led to a significant evolution of our understanding of IAD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L L Couëtil
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN
| | - J M Cardwell
- Department of Production and Population Health, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - V Gerber
- Swiss Institute of Equine Medicine, University of Berne and Agroscope, Berne, Switzerland
| | - J-P Lavoie
- Faculté de Médicine Vétérinaire, Département de Sciences Cliniques, Université de Montreal, St-Hyacinthe, Québec, Canada
| | - R Léguillette
- Department of Veterinary Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - E A Richard
- Normandie Université, UNICAEN, Caen Cedex 4, France
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Santos MP, Gutierrez-Nibeyro SD, Horn GP, Hicke JD, Stewart MC, Schaeffer DJ. In vitro mechanical evaluation of equine laryngeal tie-forward constructs prepared with different suture materials and placement patterns. Am J Vet Res 2015; 76:373-83. [PMID: 25815579 DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.76.4.373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the mechanical properties of laryngeal tie-forward (LTF) constructs prepared with different suture materials and suture placement patterns during single load to failure testing. SAMPLE Larynges harvested from 50 horse cadavers and 5 intact horse cadavers. PROCEDURES In vitro LTF constructs were created by a standard technique with polyester sutures, a standard technique with polyethylene sutures, a modified technique with metallic implants and polyester sutures, a modified technique with metallic implants and polyethylene sutures, or a modified tie-off technique with polyester sutures (10 of each type of construct). Mechanical properties including maximal load (N) at failure and failure mode were compared among constructs. Also, maximal loads at failure of the in vitro LTF constructs were compared with the loads exerted on the sutures tightened to achieve rostral laryngeal advancement in intact cadavers. RESULTS Constructs prepared by a standard technique with polyethylene sutures had a significantly higher pull out strength than those prepared by a modified technique with metallic implants and either polyester or polyethylene sutures. For constructs prepared by a standard technique with polyethylene sutures or similarly placed polyester sutures, maximal load at failure did not differ but the failure mode did differ significantly. The load to failure for all in vitro constructs was higher than the maximal load measured during a range of motion test in intact horse cadavers. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results suggested that LTF procedures can be performed in live horses with any of the suture materials and techniques tested.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcos P Santos
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61802
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Franklin SH, Allen KJ. Assessment of dynamic upper respiratory tract function in the equine athlete. EQUINE VET EDUC 2015. [DOI: 10.1111/eve.12432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. H. Franklin
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences; University of Adelaide; Roseworthy Australia
| | - K. J. Allen
- Equine Sports Medicine Centre; University of Bristol; UK
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Barnett TP, Smith LCR, Cheetham J, Barakzai SZ, Southwood L, Marr CM. A call for consensus on upper airway terminology. Equine Vet J 2015; 47:505-7. [DOI: 10.1111/evj.12468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - C. M. Marr
- EVJ Editorial Office; Ely Cambridgeshire UK
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Santos MP, Gutierrez-Nibeyro SD, Horn GP, Johnson AJW, Stewart MC, Schaeffer DJ. Mechanical properties of various suture materials and placement patterns tested with surrogate in vitro model constructs simulating laryngeal advancement tie-forward procedures in horses. Am J Vet Res 2014; 75:500-6. [PMID: 24762024 DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.75.5.500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the mechanical properties of laryngeal tie-forward (LTF) surrogate constructs prepared with steel fixtures and No. 5 braided polyester or braided polyethylene by use of a standard or a modified suture placement technique. SAMPLE 32 LTF surrogate constructs. PROCEDURES Surrogate constructs were prepared with steel fixtures and sutures (polyester or polyethylene) by use of a standard or modified suture placement technique. Constructs underwent single-load-to-failure testing. Maximal load at failure, elongation at failure, stiffness, and suture breakage sites were compared among constructs prepared with polyester sutures by means of the standard (n = 10) or modified (10) technique and those prepared with polyethylene sutures with the standard (6) or modified (6) technique. RESULTS Polyethylene suture constructs had higher stiffness, higher load at failure, and lower elongation at failure than did polyester suture constructs. Constructs prepared with the modified technique had higher load at failure than did those prepared with the standard technique for both suture materials. All sutures broke at the knot in constructs prepared with the standard technique. Sutures broke at a location away from the knot in 13 of 16 constructs prepared with the modified technique (3 such constructs with polyethylene sutures broke at the knot). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results suggested LTF surrogate constructs prepared with polyethylene sutures or the modified technique were stronger than those prepared with polyester sutures or the standard technique.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcos P Santos
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL 61802
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Pollock PJ, Kelly PG, Reardon RJM, Kelly GM. Dynamic ventrorostral displacement of the dorsal laryngeal mucosa in horses. Vet Rec 2013; 172:501. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.101319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - R. J. M. Reardon
- Weipers Centre Equine Hospital; School of Veterinary Medicine; University of Glasgow; 464 Bearsden Road Glasgow G61 1QH Scotland UK
| | - G. M. Kelly
- O'Byrne and Halley Equine Hospital; Fethard Tipperary Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Van Erck-Westergren E, Franklin SH, Bayly WM. Respiratory diseases and their effects on respiratory function and exercise capacity. Equine Vet J 2013; 45:376-87. [PMID: 23368813 DOI: 10.1111/evj.12028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2011] [Accepted: 12/02/2012] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Given that aerobic metabolism is the predominant energy pathway for most sports, the respiratory system can be a rate-limiting factor in the exercise capacity of fit and healthy horses. Consequently, respiratory diseases, even in mild forms, are potentially deleterious to any athletic performance. The functional impairment associated with a respiratory condition depends on the degree of severity of the disease and the equestrian discipline involved. Respiratory abnormalities generally result in an increase in respiratory impedance and work of breathing and a reduced level of ventilation that can be detected objectively by deterioration in breathing mechanics and arterial blood gas tensions and/or lactataemia. The overall prevalence of airway diseases is comparatively high in equine athletes and may affect the upper airways, lower airways or both. Diseases of the airways have been associated with a wide variety of anatomical and/or inflammatory conditions. In some instances, the diagnosis is challenging because conditions can be subclinical in horses at rest and become clinically relevant only during exercise. In such cases, an exercise test may be warranted in the evaluation of the patient. The design of the exercise test is critical to inducing the clinical signs of the problem and establishing an accurate diagnosis. Additional diagnostic techniques, such as airway sampling, can be valuable in the diagnosis of subclinical lower airway problems that have the capacity to impair performance. As all these techniques become more widely used in practice, they should inevitably enhance veterinarians' diagnostic capabilities and improve their assessment of treatment effectiveness and the long-term management of equine athletes.
Collapse
|
25
|
Barakzai SZ, Cheetham J. Endoscopic examination of exercising horses: Effects on diagnosis and treatment of upper respiratory tract disorders. Equine Vet J 2012; 44:501-3. [DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.2012.00625.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|