AVA Conference Gold Coast 2020

One of the main challenges that complicates wound healing is high motion in some areas of the equine limb. Because of this, the equine practitioner should be familiar on the use and application of external coaptation techniques to successfully treat and manage wounds. Coaptation to immobilise the limb is indicated for wounds located in high range of movement or when the original wound involved supporting tissues, such as tendons and ligaments. Depending on the location of the wound and degree of immobilisation required, different type of splints (distal limb splints, full-limb splints) and casts (full limb cast, distal limb cast, bandage cast, foot cast) can be used. Splints can be applied with relative ease, and removed and reapplied repeatedly, allowing for regular inspection of the wound. Casts will provide more rigidity than do splints but may lead to the development of pressure sores. The benefits of splinting or casting should be compared against the potential negative effects that may result from inadequate use of splints or casts. In addition, the equine practitioner should always evaluate the wound, the care-giver, the horse environment and temperament to decide if the use of external coaptation can help or complicate the healing process.