Page 491 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

Conservative management of foals

In foals under 1 year of age that have symptoms of wobbler syndrome due to dynamic
VetBooks.ir stenosis of the vertebral canal, conservative management can help to relieve the compression

of the spinal cord. This involves the following.

• Restricting the energy levels of the diet to 65–75% of the recommended intake for the
size and weight of the foal. Adequate protein levels and a balanced vitamin and mineral

supplement are provided with increased levels of vitamins A and E and a specific level of
selenium. Meadow or timothy hay (6–9% protein) is provided as roughage. The aim of

this is to slow the growth rate of bone and improve bone metabolism in the hope that the
vertebral canal will enlarge and relieve the compression of the spinal cord.
• Confining the foal to the stable for up to 6 months reduces the repeated compression of

the spinal cord caused by neck flexion and movement.

• The feed and water should be provided at a height that is easily reached. Hay should be
loose so the animal does not have to repeatedly flex his neck, pulling it from a net.

• Corticosteroids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as phenylbutazone may be

given to reduce inflammation at the site of compression. These can produce a temporary
reduction of neurological signs.

Conservative management of older horses
The aim of treatment is to suppress inflammation and reduce neurological signs.

• Intra-articular medication of the lower neck facet joints with corticosteroids can be

helpful. This may alleviate compression by reducing soft tissue swelling and slowing
down further arthritic changes.

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as phenylbutazone may be prescribed to
reduce inflammation at the site of compression.

• Acupuncture may help to alleviate pain and inflammation associated with the soft tissue

swelling and degenerative bony changes.

SURGICAL TREATMENT

Fusion of adjacent cervical vertebrae is used for treatment of both dynamic and static
stenosis. With the horse under general anaesthesia, a metal basket is placed across the

unstable vertebrae and packed with a bone graft. This stabilizes the vertebrae and allows the
bones and spinal canal to remodel during the healing process, resulting in decompression of

the spinal cord.