Transarterial Coil Embolization of the Internal Carotid Artery and the Maxillar Artery in A Standing Horse for Therapy of Guttural Pouch Mycosis

A mare suffering from unilateral mycosis of the guttural pouch was successfully treated by transarterial coil embolization. The horse was presented with severe episodes of epistaxis. An endoscopic examination illustrated extensive fungal plaques on the surface of the arteria carotis interna whose vascular wall showed profund changes caused by previous bleeding. These findings gave reasons for a guarded prognosis. Both the internal and external carotic artery as well as their transition into the maxillary artery were embolized via transarterial Dacron fiber-covered stainless steel occluding spring coils (embolization coils). The minimal invasive procedure was performed via the common carotic artery under fluoroscopic guidance with the horse in a standing position. With this technique a general anaesthesia as well as potential complications during recovery could be avoided. No further epistaxis was observed in the post-operative period. Endoscopic examinations were performed after 14, 30 and 42 days showing progressive improvement and healing of the mucosa. After six weeks the mare was discharged and returned back for use of pleasure riding.