Non-healing wounds of the equine distal limb — effective field surgery techniques

Abstract

Management of a chronic wound presents a common challenge in equine practice. Thorough evaluation of the animal and wound is required to identify intrinsic and extrinsic factors that can prevent healing. Additional investigation may require radiography, ultrasonography, bacterial culture and histopathology in order to identify underlying complicating factors. External factors such as ongoing trauma, bacterial colonisation and excess movement require management utilising debridement, coaptation and appropriate use of antimicrobial therapy. Wound specific factors such as bone sequestra and the propensity for exuberant granulation in the distal limb require careful evaluation and proactive management. Once inhibitory factors have been addressed, second intention healing can be optimised through the principles of moist wound healing and by the use of skin grafting techniques. Island grafting techniques can be performed in the field and should be considered as a cost-effective method of improving the quality and speed of wound healing.