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Close Communication, Teamwork Important in Preventing SSIs 

By Paul Basilio, December 10, 2025

With up to 37% of horses getting a surgical site infection (SSIs) after colic surgery, post-surgical management is crucial, according to Jesse Tyma, DVM, DACVS-LA, a veterinarian at Rhinebeck Equine in Rhinebeck, N.Y.

“In the early postoperative period following repeat celiotomy, that risk jumps to 87%,” said Dr. Tyma during a presentation at the 71st Annual AAEP Convention in Denver.

SSIs can result in longer hospitalizations, increased costs, delayed return to work, and a 12-fold increase in the risk for incisional hernias. In horses undergoing colic surgery, the development of an incisional hernia statistically is associated with decreased odds of returning to their original use.

“Early recognition and appropriate management of these SSIs is so important,” Dr. Tyma said.

Clinical signs include discharge, fever, pain, and localized swelling. However, localized swelling in the absence of other clinical signs can be normal, and may be more prominent in horses with unbandaged vs bandaged abdomens, according to Dr. Tyma.

If a veterinarian believes their patient has an SSI, Dr. Tyma strongly recommends establishing a line of communication with the operating surgeon to collaborate on appropriate management and biosurveillance practices.

“Open communication across primary, emergency, and referral care teams is paramount for optimizing care, delineating clear expectations, and improving patient outcomes,” she said.

Look for more on SSIs after colic in our next digital issue.