Standing equine surgery on the yard: what is possible?

Abstract

Background: In general equine practice, many minor standing surgical procedures are commonly done at the owner's or trainer's premises. The growing concept of contextualised care involves considering individual client preferences, abilities and needs when planning treatment. Different care options may be appropriate depending on the situation – for example, when clients cannot afford hospitalisation, prefer home treatment with a familiar vet or have horses that travel poorly.

Aim of the article: This article describes some of the indications for performing standing surgery on the yard, the importance of meticulous planning and preparation before surgery, and outlines some of the basic and more advanced surgeries that can safely be performed on the yard, depending on the experience of the individual surgeon.