Equine Reproduction and Stud Medicine Q&A 11

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An adult stallion has been suffering from colic for several hours. The pulse rate is 72/minute. The left inguinal-scrotal region appears swollen and the left testicle is cool and firm to the touch.

Question	Answer		Article
What is your tentative diagnosis?	Left-sided incarcerated/strangulated inguinal herniation.		Link to Article
How would you confirm the diagnosis?	By rectal examination. Palpation of the left vaginal ring will reveal small intestine entering the inguinal canal.		Link to Article
What immediate procedures would you follow prior to any surgical procedure?	Rectal examination to evaluate the degree of dilation of the proximal small intestine. A nasogastric tube must be inserted to evaluate gastric contents, and to decompress the stomach in the case of gastric overload. The skin turgor, mucous membrane colour, and capillary refill time are evaluated to assess the degree of dehydration. If possible, haematological examination is carried out for evaluation of the PCV. NSAIDs, such as flunixin meglumine, and broad-spectrum antibiotics are administered IV, as well as saline solutions in the case of severe dehydration.		Link to Article
What is your ultimate surgical treatment?	Inguinal herniorrhaphy. The testicle at the affected site has to be removed to make closure of the external inguinal ring possible, which is done to prevent recurrence of the herniation. As hereditary factors may play a role in the incidence of inguinal herniation, it is recommended to exclude the animal from further breeding, and for that reason simultaneous removal of the other testicle should be considered.		Link to Article