Caudal ventral midline herniation in a foal

This report outlines the diagnosis, surgical treatment and successful outcome following the treatment of a foal presented with a congenital abdominal hernia. A focal ventral abdominal swelling, enlarging since birth, starting just caudal to the intact umbilicus and extending caudally over the prepuce was observed. Once in dorsal recumbency, the hernia was found to originate from a defect of the abdominal wall in the linea alba region. A simple closed herniorrhaphy with inversion of the large peritoneal sac into the abdomen was performed. Post-operative complications included fever with the development of an abscess at the surgical site. This was diagnosed and drained with ultrasound guidance. Based on culture and sensitivity testing of the abscess exudate, antibiotic therapy was adapted and the foal made a full recovery. A clinical examination undertaken 1 year later revealed complete healing of the linea alba. Herniation due to a muscle wall default has not been previously reported in foals. This article reviews the commonly observed causes of herniation (umbilical and inguinal hernias). However, a third type of congenital ventral body wall hernia should be considered for the differential diagnosis of swelling of the preputial area in foals.