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Diagnosis
Conditions or ailments that are the cause of a problem that you see - your observation.

Your vet may diagnose

Fracture of Neck Vertebrae

Summary

These are uncommon fractures but occur more often in young horses in early training, and usually involves the neck (cervical) vertebrae.

The injury can occur in a variety of ways but commonly occurs when horses pull back when tied, fall on their side, or flip over backwards.

Severity and prognosis of spinal fractures depend on whether or not the spinal cord is damaged and the general characteristics of the fracture. In a complete or severe fracture, the spinal cord may be damaged or swollen, causing wobbliness, paralysis or weakness.

my vet's role

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OTHER DIAGNOSES CONSIDERED

Other conditions or ailments that might also need to be ruled out by a vet.

Very Common
Less Common
Rare
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PROGNOSIS AND RELEVANT FACTORS

Depends on the precise nature of the fracture and involvement of the spinal cord.

my role

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I might observe

You might make these observations when a horse has this condition.

Very Common
Less Common
Rare
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Questions To Ask Your Vet:
  • Tell me more about the fracture and involvement of the spinal cord, how severe is it?
  • Can it be corrected surgically?
  • What is the cost and prognosis after surgery?
Prevention

Good horsemanship can go a long way toward preventing some of these injuries.

Author: Doug Thal DVM Dipl. ABVP