Head trauma - emergency management, dignosis and treatment (LVS25)

21 Nov 2025
RVC Equine Theatre 2

Skull fractures are common in horses and are usually secondary to trauma. There is little soft tissue coverage over the skull predisposing fracture of that area to be open (in as much as 80% of cases) and therefore contaminated/infected. A good knowledge of the anatomy is needed when addressing fractures in that location as very often other vital structures maybe involved. This presentation will give an overview of the most common bones involved in skull fracture, common complications encountered and give the equine practitioner a good understanding of treatment challenges and options.

• Understand the most common features of skull fracture
• Understand the common complications encountered in skull fracture
• Understand the challenges involved in treating such fractures

Speakers

Mélanie Perrier, Diplomate ACVS ECVS CERP, Lecturer in Equine Surgery - Royal Veterinary College