Upper Respiratory Surgery

Dynamic Endoscopy

A healthy respiratory system is essential for your horse’s comfort, performance, and overall well-being. Horses with upper airway disorders often experience breathing difficulties, reduced stamina, or abnormal noises during exercise. At Cave Creek Equine® Sports Medicine & Surgery, we offer advanced upper respiratory surgeries to restore normal breathing and help your horse perform at its best.

Common Conditions Requiring Surgery

Our surgical team treats a variety of upper airway conditions, including:

  • Laryngeal hemiplegia (roaring): Corrected through prosthetic laryngoplasty (tie-back surgery).
  • Dorsal displacement of the soft palate (DDSP).
  • Epiglottic entrapment or cysts.
  • Nasal or sinus obstructions, masses, or deformities.
  • Severe guttural pouch infections or conditions.

Advanced Surgical Techniques

  • Endoscopic Evaluation: We use video endoscopy to diagnose airway issues accurately.
  • Minimally Invasive Procedures: When possible, we perform laser or standing surgeries to reduce recovery time and stress.
  • Performance Horse Expertise: We specialize in diagnosing and treating airway issues that impact athletic performance.

Post-Operative Care and Recovery

Following surgery, our team provides comprehensive aftercare, including:

  • Pain management and anti-inflammatory treatments.
  • Controlled exercise plans to ensure proper healing.
  • Ongoing respiratory evaluations and follow-up endoscopy if needed.

Why Choose Cave Creek Equine®?

  • Board-certified surgical expertise from Dr. Vidal and Dr. Aristizabal
  • State-of-the-art diagnostic tools including dynamic endoscopy.
  • Individualized treatment plans for both performance horses and companions.

If your horse is experiencing breathing difficulties or performance issues, contact Cave Creek Equine® to schedule a respiratory evaluation. Early intervention can make all the difference in your horse’s comfort and success.

623-581-5508