Basic Reproductive Surgery in the Horse

Question 1

What is an open castration?

Answer 1

Vaginal tunic incised

Question 2

What is a closed castration?

Answer 2

Vaginal tunic not incised
Young/small horses
Single emasculation

Question 3

Which testis should be removed first?

Answer 3

Smaller one
Older horses
Double emasculate

Question 4

What peri-operative medications are necessary for castrations?

Answer 4

Tetanus toxoid
Analgesics
+/- Antibiotics

Question 5

What supplies are necessary for castrations?

Answer 5

Antiseptic for site preparation
Local anesthetic
Roll cotton or gauze
Container for antiseptics and gauze

Question 6

What instruments are necessary for castrations?

Answer 6

Scalpel handle and blade
Towel clamp
Hemostat
+/- Needle holder for ligation
Metzenbaum scissors
Gauze

Question 7

What are the common complications following castration?

Answer 7

Hemorrhage
Excessive swelling
Infection
Eventration (internal inguinal ring, small intestine, omentum)

Question 8

What is normal perineal conformation?

Answer 8

Almost perpendicular to ground
10-20 degrees

Question 9

How far down should the perineal region be sutured for a caslick procedure?

Answer 9

Down to level of tuber ischii

Question 10

What type of suture pattern/material should be used for caslick procedure?

Answer 10

Simple continuous
Absorbable or nonabsorbable

Question 11

Should you ever remove one testicle?

Answer 11

No! Unless you know there is only one remaining