Investigations on trauma induced abdominal muscle defects in draught horses

Seven draught horses aged 7–12 yr were presented with trauma induced large abdominal defects in flank muscles. The consistent evidence of rupture of same group of muscles of lower abdomen in all the animals was investigated in relation to predisposing factors, methods of diagnosis, therapeutic options and prognosis of the cases. Recognition of predisposing factors like poor managemental conditions, heavy parasitic load, poor nutrition and negligible exercise were found to be associated significantly. Ultrasonography assisted in examination of different layers of muscles of abdomen, size and direction of the tear and extent of damage to muscles and their sheath thereby facilitating to decide the proposed incision on swelling while attempting for correction of defect. The bowline model of equine body was hypothesized to delineate the susceptibility of lateral abdominal muscle to tears. Treatment options included preparation of the animal for 4–6 weeks and primary closure of the rent and proper abdominal bandage support to encourage the success rate and improve prognosis.