34th Annual Scientific Meeting proceedings

Objectives:

The most common disorder affecting the salivary glands in horses is trauma to the parotid gland or duct. Several management techniques have been described, each with their own set of complications.The aim of this case report is to describe the procedure and outcomes of botulinum toxin type A injection treatment for a iatrogenic damage of the parotid gland or it’s duct in two adult horses.

Methods:

Two clinical cases were described, both involving iatrogenic damage to the parotid salivary gland or its duct. In both cases, treatment consisted of the injection of 200 U of botulinum toxin type A into the parotid gland to reduce saliva production and prevent the potential development of a fistula. Follow-up evaluation was conducted via telephone consultations and photographs provided by the owners.

Results:

Both clinical cases exhibited a marked reduction in saliva production from the parotid gland within three days post-toxin injection, and the wounds healed without complications. Owners reported no short- or long-term adverse effects following the injection.

Conclusions:

The administration of botulinum toxin type A appears to be a safe and effective therapeutic alternative or adjunctive procedure for treating fistulas or wounds in the parotid gland or duct in horses. This approach may prove particularly valuable in cases where surgical intervention is not feasible. Further research is now necessary to further define the correct dose and treatment regime.