Effect of poll flexion and dynamic laryngeal collapse on tracheal pressure in Norwegian Coldblooded Trotter racehorses

Abstract

Dynamic laryngeal collapse (DLC) associated with poll flexion is a newly diagnosed upper respiratory tract obstructive disorder that causes poor racing performance. To determine if Norwegian Coldblooded Trotters (NCTs) affected with DLC associated with poll flexion differ from normal, elite NCTs based on simple airway mechanics measurements. Five normal elite NCTs and 6 NCTs diagnosed previously with DLC underwent treadmill videoendoscopy while tracheal pressures were measured continuously. Alternating head positions were used such that horses were exercised with free head carriage and induced poll flexion at heart rates >200 beats/min. Peak inspiratory tracheal pressures were significantly more negative for horses with DLC compared to the elite horses. This difference was only significant during the exercise phases when the poll region was flexed, P = 0.0015. Head position significantly affected peak inspiratory pressure for both elite and affected horses, P < 0.0001. Induced poll flexion significantly affected peak inspiratory pressure (PIP) in all horses; however, PIPs were significantly more negative in those affected with DLC. Based upon the tracheal pressure measurements recorded in this study, DLC in NCTs is a severe obstructive upper respiratory tract disorder that is induced by poll flexion.