Abdominal Surgery: Summary Procedure and Principles (16-Dec-2003)

The Abdominal Incision The caudal ventral median celiotomy is the most popular approach because it is simple and allows access to most of the equine abdomen. This incision extends for 25 cm or more from a point 2.5 cm cranial to the umbilicus. A more cranial approach would also be indicated if preoperative information suggested a lesion in the cranial part of the abdomen, such as diaphragmatic hernia, gastroduodenal lesion, and renal and ureteral surgery in a foal. A more caudal incision is required for cesarean section, surgery of the bladder and umbilical components, and for access to lesions in the distal part of the small colon. Caudal incisions in male horses require a paramedian skin incision around the prepuce and reflection of the skin edge laterally to expose the body wall. Layers should not be undermined or separated during incision or closure, because this is traumatic, creates dead space, and could reduce blood flow to wound margins.