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  Discussion on Week # 6 - Post Op
Author Message

Posted on Saturday, Sep 8, 2001 - 9:08 am:

Hi Dr.O:
My 2yr old colt "Sam" underwent abdominal surgery 6 wks ago for nephrosplenic entrapment. Due to his bowel flipping back on its own, prior to being cut, he was simply sewed back up.

It was recommended Sam be hand walked for 3-4 wks., then turned out in small paddock 3-4 wks.
However, the precaution of him hurting himself in the paddock (stud colt)he was instead walked for 4x's/day for 4wks, then slowly jogged (1 mile)behind another horse on the track the past 2 wks.

The trainer feels Sam has healed enough to hook him in harness and start jogging him slow mile(s) in the cart. Although you recommend training should not resume until 12 wks after surgery, you also write that uncomplicated VMI healing occurs by 35 days post op. My question: Is it too early for Sam to be hooked to a jogger? Although he won't be 'training', but rather, exercising; is the possibility of him developing a hernia by pulling the jog cart (weight) a warranted concern?

One study indicates of 210 horses who survived VMC for at least 4 mths., the incidence rate of incisional herias was 16%. Any recommendations?

Posted on Sunday, Sep 9, 2001 - 10:09 am:

Hello Nancy,
You should follow your surgeons advice, he knows the details of your horse. If you are unsure what he is recommending at this stage call him up.
DrO

Posted on Sunday, Sep 9, 2001 - 12:14 pm:

Don't take the risk!!

Posted on Sunday, Sep 9, 2001 - 2:29 pm:

I agree with Julie. You would only be asking this question if you are unsure and if the trainer was pushing you that he thinks its ok. And you don't feel confident with his suggestion. Just wait and see... Better safe than sorry. (sorry for the hackneyed expression but if the shoe fits... ooops again.)

Posted on Sunday, Sep 9, 2001 - 3:21 pm:

Patience is the key. Trainers goals are not always in the horses best interest..but the vets should be..Get his approval before you put his harness on...I have been down this road and as JoJo says ..Better safe than sorry....
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