Specialty 02
Soft tissue surgery
Castration, umbilical and inguinal hernias, skin tumours, sinus, eye, jaw and dental surgery.
Soft tissue surgery covers procedures on the skin, abdominal wall, sinuses, eyes, jaw and teeth, as well as castration. For every procedure the technique is tailored to the horse: age, anatomy, use and the extent of the lesion determine the approach.
Procedures
- Castration
- Under general anaesthesia on the operating table, including cryptorchid horses (rigs).
- Umbilical hernia
- Surgical repair when spontaneous closure does not occur or there is a risk of incarceration.
- Inguinal hernia
- In foals and adult stallions; incarcerated intestine requires prompt surgical treatment.
- Sinus surgery
- Surgical treatment of sinus disorders.
- Skin tumours
- Sarcoids, melanomas, squamous cell carcinomas and other skin lesions.
- Penile amputation
- For specific conditions of the penis, including tumours.
- Eye surgery
- Enucleation, third eyelid removal, entropion correction in foals and eyelid reconstruction after a wound.
- Jaw fractures
- Surgical treatment of fractures of the mandible or maxilla.
- Tooth extraction
- Simple extraction, buccotomy or repulsion.
What to expect
Assessment
Clinical examination and, where needed, ultrasonography or radiography. Existing images and findings are taken into account.
Proposal
Discussion of the technique, the expected outcome, the risks and the costs. The price depends on the chosen technique and the complexity of the procedure.
Procedure
Depending on the procedure, standing under sedation and local anaesthesia, or under general anaesthesia. Castrations are always performed under general anaesthesia on the operating table.
Aftercare
Clear instructions on wound care, exercise and medication. Re-examinations take place when medically necessary.
Recovery & aftercare
Wound healing in horses takes patience, especially on the limbs. The discharge instructions cover wound care, any bandage changes, medication and permitted exercise.
Re-examinations take place when medically necessary, at the clinic or in consultation with your own vet.
Soft tissue surgery
Frequently asked questions
How is a castration carried out at Cavalyx?
Under general anaesthesia on the operating table. The technique, open or closed, is tailored to the horse’s age, anatomy, use and the size of the inguinal rings.
What does a castration cost?
That depends on the chosen technique and the complexity of the procedure. You receive a cost estimate in advance.
Can castrations be done on set days?
A castration can always be scheduled. In addition, dedicated castration days are organised so that everything runs efficiently for you.
Appointment or advice.
Call or email us. We look at your question personally and arrange an appointment together — in consultation with your own vet where appropriate.