Boufis P. DVM, PhD student, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
Tyrnenopoulou P. DVM, PhD, Assistant Professor, Clinic of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
Introduction
The aim of this report is to present a case of sialolithiasis in a Haflinger mare, requiring surgical excision. Sialoliths are firm masses, commonly seen close to or within the distal parotid salivary duct.
Clinical case
A 25-year-old Haflinger mare was presented with a history of dysphagia and sialorrhea. Clinical examination revealed the presence of a solid, mobile, mass of 7 cm x 3 cm x 4 cm at the height of level 208. According to the horse’s history, the swelling was first noticed 2 months ago. Ultrasonographic examination revealed a hyperechoic well-circumscribed mass. It was decided to surgically remove the sialotith in standing position under sedation. A full mouth speculum was placed and lidocaine hydrochloride 2% was injected locally over the mass. A horizontal incision of the buccal mucosa was performed with a #12 scalpel followed by application of pressure externally and total excision of the sialolith. The wound was then lavaged with a 2% chlorhexidine antiseptic solution and allowed to heal by second intention. Postoperatively, flunixin meglumine and – penicillin-streptomycin were administered for 5 days.
Results
The mare presented immediate clinical improvement, without any complications.
Conclusions
Sialolithiasis is a rare condition in horses, requiring surgical intervention. The intraoral approach seems to be an effective method with minimal complications.
References
- Carlson N, Eastman T, Winfield L (2015) Sialolithiasis in horses: A retrospective study of 25 cases (2002–2013). The Canadian Veterinary Journal 56(12), p. 1239.
- Diakakis N, Karadima V (2021) Equine Sialolithiasis of the Distal Parotid Duct. Retrospective Study on 4 Cases. Archives of Veterinary Sci- ence and Medicine 4(1), pp.13-23.
- Kay G (2006) Sialolithiasis in equids, a report on 21 cases. Equine Veterinary Education 18(6), pp. 333-336.
