A practical approach to localization of a suppurative cavity and resolution of a chronic draining tract in a horse

Abstract

This case report describes a practical method for resolving a hard to localize abscess in a horse resulting from a traumatic injury near the stifle joint. When the horse presented for a chronic draining tract, a foreign body was suspected, with no external indication of location. Although ultrasonography was attempted to localize the abscess, the practitioner could not confidently identify the source of the draining tract. Radiography revealed a gas‐filled cavity approximately 28 cm proximal to the tract opening. In order to establish continuity between the tract opening and the presumed suppurative cavity, the practitioner developed a malleable radiopaque probe from readily available materials. Ultrasonography combined with the radiopaque probe allowed for confident localization and formulation of a surgical plan. The use of inexpensive available materials minimized cost and avoided delays in diagnosis and treatment. This improvised fistulographic method is suitable for practitioners at any skill level or practice setting.