Scrotal hernia in a stallion
Keywords: stallion, scrotum, hernia, testicles, colic
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An 11-year-old Standardbred stallion with anorexia, acute abdominal pain and large volumes of gastric reflux, was found to have a markedly enlarged left scrotum; approximately 22 cm x 11 cm x11 cm. The stallion had a history of successful breeding in the current season.
An 11-year-old Standardbred stallion with anorexia, acute abdominal pain and large volumes of gastric reflux, was found to have a markedly enlarged left scrotum; approximately 22 cm x 11 cm x11 cm. The stallion had a history of successful breeding in the current season.
Examination via trans-scrotal ultrasonography revealed the presence of fluid (f) surrounding the testicle (t) and a loop or loops of bowel containing gas (g) or no gas (ng) as indicated by highly echogencic foci. Peristalsis was not seen in the entrapped loops of bowel. Via transrectal palpation, a loop/s of bowel could easily be palpated entering the internal inguinal opening. Collectively, these findings led to a diagnosis of left inguinal hernia.
Inguinal hernias are not uncommon in stallions. Occasionally they will resolve spontaneously but will often recur. Surgery is required in all cases of inguinal herniation. Frequently it is necessary to remove the affected testicle while the inguinal canal is ablated. In such cases, the remaining testicle undergoes compensatory re-hyperplasia, allowing spermatogenesis to return to about 85% of its previous capacity.
