Implementation of a prototype dynamic laryngoplasty system in standing sedated horses provided arytenoid abduction control at seven days postoperatively.

Objective: Evaluate a prototype dynamic laryngoplasty system (DLPS) in horses; a feasibility study.

Animals: 7 healthy Standardbred adult horses.

Methods: This was an in vivo experimental study. Horses had a standing surgical procedure to induce complete laryngeal hemiplegia, which was subsequently treated using the dynamic laryngoplasty system (DLPS). Activation of the DLPS was achieved using an injection port exiting through the skin (n = 2) or a subcutaneous injection port (n = 5). For each horse, endoscopic examinations of the upper respiratory tract were performed preoperatively, intraoperatively, and 7 days postoperatively. Left-to-right quotient ratios calculated during inactivated and activated states were obtained from still images of the rima glottidis acquired during day 7. In 3 horses, the device was intentionally overinflated to evaluate for device failure, and postmortem examinations were performed on day 7. For the remaining 4 horses, upper respiratory tract endoscopy was repeated at 1 month postoperatively, with no subsequent postmortem exam.

Results: No perioperative complications occurred, and the DLPS was effectively delivered in all horses under standing sedation. The left-to-right quotient ratio at day 7 postoperatively could be altered from a resting position of 0.76 (± 0.06) to a maximum of 0.97 (± 0.06; P < .05). The degree of arytenoid abduction could not be significantly altered after 1 month of device implantation, suspected to be due to peri-implant fibrosis. No coughing nor tracheal contamination was observed at all time points or during inflation.

Clinical Relevance: The ability to alter the degree of abduction at 7 days postoperatively with the DLPS may be beneficial in selective cases.