PATIENT ASSESSMENT
PRE-SURGICAL ASSESSMENT
When considering general anesthesia and elective surgery, it is important that the patient is in optimal health. Any indication of respiratory disease, fever, abnormal intestinal function or skin abnormalities in the surgical area could result in the procedure being postponed until the horse is a suitable candidate for surgery.
What to look for:
Nasal discharge or coughing
Fever
Abnormal appetite or abnormal manure
Scabs, skin scurf's or sweats in the surgical area
POST SURGICAL ASSESSMENT
After surgery and general anesthesia, it is important that the horse receives limited feeding for a couple of days to allow the intestine to return to normal function. You will be advised of the amount and type of exercise allowed post-operatively by the surgeon at discharge. Please follow these discharge instructions carefully.
What to look for:
The horse becomes increasingly lame
Larger amounts of swelling and heat noted
Pus or discharge from the surgical incision
Decreased appetite or not passing standard amount of normal manure
General discomfort (pawing, kicking, stall-walking)
Cough or nasal discharge
If you have any questions regarding the procedure or follow up care we recommend calling your regular veterinarian first. Please do not hesitate to call us at 613-925-4200 if you still have questions or concerns after speaking to your regular veterinarian.
