Arterial oxygen tension and pulmonary ventilation in horses placed in theAndersonSling suspension system after a period of lateral recumbency and anaesthetised with constant rate infusions of romifidine and ketamine

Abstract

Anderson Sling suspension after a period of recumbency improves cardiopulmonary function and recovery quality in horses and therefore might be considered for use to recover hypoxic horses.

Weight reduction and possible implications for the rehabilitation of horses with ambulatory difficulties

“…In order to overcome the limitations of current weight reduction techniques, new devices are needed. Currently, the most versatile commercially available option for weight reduction is a rescue sling; however, many of the available slings apply pressure to the abdomen, which is not designed to support weight (Gimenez et al 2008; François et al 2014; Montgomery et al 2018, 2019); a harness avoiding pressure on the abdomen would be beneficial.…”

“…The currently available slings are intended for short‐term use in rescue situations or to lift recumbent horses (Ishihara et al 2006a). Most slings are static, without the ability to alter the amount of load reduction, and place significant weight on the abdomen (Gimenez et al 2008; François et al 2014). Conventional slings have one pick‐up point attaching it to a mechanical hoist to suspend the animal with two options, complete load reduction of all limbs or no load reduction (Hutchins et al 1987).…”

“…Other disadvantages involve intolerance, expensive equipment, equipment failure, injury to the surgical site and an increased need for trained personnel (Clark‐Price 2013). However, some studies disagree over the above complications seen with rescue slings (François et al 2014). A common belief is that these devices place weight on the abdomen resulting in compromised respiration and placing significant pressure on abdominal organs, which is thought to affect heart and lung function (Gimenez et al 2008; François et al 2014).…”

“…However, some studies disagree over the above complications seen with rescue slings (François et al 2014). A common belief is that these devices place weight on the abdomen resulting in compromised respiration and placing significant pressure on abdominal organs, which is thought to affect heart and lung function (Gimenez et al 2008; François et al 2014). There is also a concern of decreased venous return from the head, neck and legs if the webbing or ropes are too tight or misused, thereby making personnel training on the application of the sling essential (Gimenez et al 2008).…”

“…The sling supports the skeleton through mesh panels and cross‐straps intended to prevent respiratory compromise, pressure points or excessive abdominal pressure. Suspension in the Anderson Sling after recumbency showed increases in cardiopulmonary function and recovery quality (François et al 2014) when compared to lateral recumbency. When in recumbency for long periods, possible risks include the development of respiratory, muscular, neurological or gastrointestinal compromise, as well as skin and other soft tissue injuries (Gimenez et al 2008).…”