Surgical management of jugular vein perforation in a horse: A case report

Authors: Christina Peleki, Danae E. Zamboulis, Paraskevi Papadopoulou, Athina Tseliou, Zacharoula R. Toutoudaki, and Nikolaos Diakakis

Ger. J. Vet. Res 2026. vol. 6, Iss. 1 pp:67-72
Doi: https://doi.org/10.51585/gjvr.2026.1.0179

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Abstract:

Jugular vein perforation following a neck injury is not commonly reported in horses but should be treated promptly to prevent loss of life. It can be overlooked in the absence of hard signs of vascular injury, but ultrasonographic examination of the jugular groove can help identify the injured vessel. Vascular repair of the jugular vein is the ultimate objective; however, ligation should be considered if undertaking surgical repair will compromise the ability of the horse to survive. This case report describes the successful management of a jugular vein perforation in a severely anemic horse by surgical ligation in a standing position. The procedure is quick, with a good long-term outcome and return to former athletic performance, and it can be performed in the field for compromised animals that cannot undergo general anesthesia or for those with limited access to hospital settings.

Keywords:

Equine jugular vein, Horse, Jugular vein injury, Jugular vein ligation, Jugular vein perforation, Neck injury

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