Very Common
OTHER DIAGNOSES CONSIDERED
Other conditions or ailments that might also need to be ruled out by a vet.
Diagnosis
Conditions or ailments that are the cause of a problem that you see - your observation.
Your vet may diagnose
Recto-Vaginal Tear or Fistula
Synonyms: Third Degree Perineal Laceration
Summary
Mares occasionally sustain serious foaling injuries that tear the tissue between the rectum and the vagina. A foal's limb may push through the roof of the mare's vagina resulting in a single hole (fistula) or result in a common opening of vagina and rectum (a third degree perineal tear).
These wounds are shocking to horse owners when they first occur.
These wounds are repaired surgically, however the repair is often intentionally delayed 8 weeks. This allows inflammation and swelling to subside.
These wounds are shocking to horse owners when they first occur.
These wounds are repaired surgically, however the repair is often intentionally delayed 8 weeks. This allows inflammation and swelling to subside.
my vet's role
Diagnostics Used
These are tests that might be helpful to make this diagnosis or further characterize the condition.
Treatments May Include
These treatments might be used to help resolve or improve this condition.
PROGNOSIS AND RELEVANT FACTORS
The prognosis is generally good with proper repair.my role
I might observe
You might make these observations when a horse has this condition.
Skills I Might Need
I might need these skills if my horse has this diagnosis.
Questions To Ask Your Vet:
- When should surgical repair be performed?
- What effect will this injury have on future reproduction?
- Is the injury likely to recur at the next foaling?
Prevention
If possible, prepare for and attend foaling. These sorts of injuries occur more frequently when foaling is unattended.