How to Use Indwelling Intravenous Regional Limb Perfusion for Managing Horses With Persistent Distal Limb Infections

摘要

Synovial infection is one of the most common causes of morbidity and mortality in the horse. Regional limb perfusion (RLP) is an established, effective method of treating horses with synovial infection that significantly decreased mortality and loss of use in these cases. RLP is performed by injecting diluted antimicrobials into the limb either through the medullary cavity or intravenously while isolating the affected region in the limb by the use of a tourniquet. In this manner, one can achieve highand effective local concentrations of antimicrobials that are practically impossible to reach with systemic administration alone. Additional indications for RLP include orthopedic surgical site infections, open fractures, septic physitis, and osteomyelitis. Recently, the technique was also advocated as a prophylactic measure in lengthy orthopedic surgeries such as arthrodesis and fracture repair.