Use of collagen sponges with gentamicin as prevention of wall infections in midline laparotomy in horses

Clinical case report

Abstract

Equine Acute Abdomen Syndrome (AAS) is one of the pathologies with the highest mortality, with midline laparotomy being a frequent procedure for its resolution. In addition to the risks inherent to the surgical procedure, complications associated with the incision line must be considered since they directly interfere with the success of the procedure and even the survival of the animal. In this context, we present observations regarding the use of a collagen sponge (biocarrier) impregnated with antibiotic in the abdominal closure of a mare undergoing a laparotomy for the resolution of obstructive colic in the minor colon. Abdominal wall synthesis was performed with standard suture patterns in two planes: rectus abdominis muscle and subcutaneous-skin. Collagen sponges impregnated with gentamicin sulfate (1.65 mg/kg) were placed between the abdominal wall and subcutaneous-skin sutures. Postoperative care was with NSAIDs and systemic antibiotics and standard dressings (topical antisepsis). During the short hospitalization, daily observation of the surgical wound and clinical follow-up were carried out with a very positive evolution compared to other previous procedures, without the addition of the bio transporter. Skin healing evolved with minimal formation of edema and exudate, maintaining the union of the incision edges during the hospital period, until the removal of the skin stitches (14th day), and discharge the following day. According to these results, and comparing it to the history of complications in surgical wounds experienced, we believe that the use of collagen sponges impregnated with antibiotics can be considered a viable and applicable alternative in the prevention of incisional infections.