A review of knowledge regarding blood volume and splenic reserve in the horse

Successful treatment of a splenic abscess secondary to migrant metallic wires in a horse

“…Previous clinical trials have shown that splenectomised racehorses have no increase in right arterial blood pressure, a reduced cardiac output and therefore decreased oxygen delivery to muscle resulting in hyperlactataemia post exercise (Persson and Bergsten 1975; Sherlock 2011). Additionally, the contribution of the spleen to exercise performance of the horse is significant and splenic emptying has been shown to have a linear relationship with exercise intensity (Mangseth and Hornof 1983). In horses where the spleen has been removed, there is a significant elevation in heart rate during exercise and workload capacity is reduced (Mangseth and Hornof 1983; Wagneft et al .…”

“…Additionally, the contribution of the spleen to exercise performance of the horse is significant and splenic emptying has been shown to have a linear relationship with exercise intensity (Mangseth and Hornof 1983). In horses where the spleen has been removed, there is a significant elevation in heart rate during exercise and workload capacity is reduced (Mangseth and Hornof 1983; Wagneft et al . 1995).…”

Splenic abscessation: Is partial splenectomy a treatment option?

“…When commencing exercise, during periods of excitement or where there is blood loss, the spleen will contract and release these cells into the general circulation providing a substantial increase in the capacity to transport oxygen. While removal of spleen is reported to compromise optimal athletic function, it is thought that horses can live without a spleen (Persson and Bergsten 1975; Mangseth and Hornof 1983; Wagneft et al . 1995; Sherlock 2011).…”

“…Further, as noted by the authors, horses undergoing total splenectomy can return to competitive levels of athletic competition (Ortved et al . 2008; Dart and Bischofberger 2011); however, at the elite level and at maximal intensity exercise, effects on the efficiency of the cardiovascular system have been reported (Persson and Bergsten 1975; Mangseth and Hornof 1983; Wagneft et al . 1995; Sherlock 2011).…”