Surgical treatment of septic jugular thrombophlebitis in nine horses.

OBJECTIVE

To report a technique for surgical treatment of septic jugular thrombophlebitis unresponsive to medical treatment.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series.

ANIMALS

Horses (n=9) with septic jugular thrombophlebitis unresponsive to medical treatment.

METHODS

Jugular vein thrombectomy was performed under standing sedation and local anesthesia. The contents of the affected portion of vein were removed by multiple incisions in the vein, with the incisions left open to drain and heal by second intention.

RESULTS

The technique was curative in all instances, although 2 horses required a 2nd procedure. One horse required ligation of the linguofacial vein to control postsurgical hemorrhage.

CONCLUSIONS

The technique is an effective surgical treatment for septic jugular thrombophlebitis unresponsive to medical treatment.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Jugular vein thrombectomy is a straightforward technique, and has minimal postoperative complications. It allows expedient and cost-effective resolution of medically recalcitrant cases of septic jugular thrombophlebitis.