Concurrent repair of a displaced rib fracture and splenic capsular tearing using laparoscopic technique in a standing horse with acute haemoperitoneum

Abstract

SummarySplenic trauma as a sequela to rib fracture is a recognised cause of haemoperitoneum in the horse. Although surgical repair to those areas damaged is advocated as the treatment of choice, information pertaining to the simultaneous repair of such sites is lacking. Additionally, the hypovolaemic case presents a separate anaesthetic challenge. This report is the first published description of a concurrent approach for a displaced rib fracture and an associated splenic capsular tear using laparoscopic technique in a standing sedated horse with acute haemoperitoneum. The rib fracture was reduced and stabilised using polyamide ties, and the splenic capsular tear repaired using intracorporeal suturing with knotless, unidirectional barbed suture. Total surgery time was 90 min and no complications were encountered during the procedure. The mare was discharged 6 days post‐operatively. Organ orientation in the standing case afforded excellent visibility to both the parietal surface of the spleen and fractured rib, and abolished the necessity for general anaesthesia.