Standing sinus surgery in the horse: indications, techniques and complications

TREPHINATION of the equine sinuses is the most commonly indicated and performed type of sinus surgery and can be safely carried out in the standing, sedated patient by clinicians in general equine practice. Standing sinus flap surgery has become increasingly popular in equine referral hospitals in recent years and offers several advantages over the same technique performed under general anaesthesia, including reduced patient-associated risks, reduced costs and less intraoperative haemorrhage. However, appropriate indications for surgery, good patient selection, and familiarity with regional anatomy and surgical techniques are imperative in achieving good results.