Page 514 - Equine Clinical Medicine, Surgery and Reproduction, 2nd Edition

Reproductive system: 2.1 The female reproductive tr act 489

VetBooks.ir 2.97 2.98 2.99

2.100 2.101 Figs. 2.97–2.100 A Caslick’s
operation. (2.97) Local anaesthetic
has been infiltrated under the
edges of the vulval lips down to
the level of the pelvic floor. (2.98)
Using sharp scissors, a thin slice
of mucosa is removed just inside
the vulval lips. (2.99) The two
edges are now ready to be sutured
together. (2.100) The operation is
finished with the edges carefully
brought together by simple
interrupted nylon sutures.

Fig. 2.101 A Caslick’s operation
undertaken post foaling that has
subsequently broken down.

operation, although special care is needed to extend lips is time-consuming and ultimately contributes to
the stitching only to the ischium and not below it. progression of the problem. Perineal and vestibular
It is essential that due care is taken over the Caslick insufficiency are more difficult to treat and carry a
operation, its opening and its repair as excessive slightly worse prognosis.
mucosal removal or damage can lead to a shortening
of the mare’s breeding life. UROVAGINA

Prognosis Definition/overview
The prognosis varies with the degree of vulval and/ Conformational defects of the vestibule and vagina
or vestibular insufficiency and subsequent pneumo- may result in urine pooling in the anterior vagina.
vagina, but is guarded in most cases. The condition Vaginitis, cervicitis and/or endometritis may ensue,
is usually progressive during the breeding life of the leading to infertility, particularly if the condi-
mare and constant opening and repair of the vulval tion becomes chronic. Conformation may improve