Upper airway disorders are a common cause of reduced performance in horses. Audible breathing noises—especially during exercise—are often the first sign of an anatomical or functional issue affecting structures from the nostrils to the guttural pouches. Surgical treatment is only considered after thorough diagnostics and when conservative measures have been exhausted.
At Hanseklinik, we follow a comprehensive approach combining advanced imaging, functional diagnostics, and years of surgical experience. Many procedures can be performed minimally invasively while the horse remains standing and sedated.
The conditions that may require upper airway surgery are diverse and may involve the following areas:
If left untreated, upper airway disorders may become chronic and significantly reduce the horse’s well-being and performance. Some conditions (e.g. guttural pouch mycosis, tumors) can progress rapidly and become life-threatening. Early diagnosis greatly improves outcomes, especially in functional issues like laryngeal paralysis.
To accurately identify the cause of upper airway problems, we use a combination of modern diagnostic techniques:
Depending on the diagnosis, surgical treatment may target one or more of the following areas:
The prognosis varies depending on the condition and the timing of intervention. Many surgical procedures, especially minimally invasive ones, result in a full return to athletic performance. Chronic or advanced conditions (e.g. tumors, permanent collapse) may limit the outcome. Early diagnosis is key to success.
No. Many causes of breathing noise can be treated conservatively or may not affect performance. Surgery is only recommended after a full workup and in clearly diagnosed cases.
Yes. Many procedures—such as sinus surgeries or guttural pouch treatment—can be performed under standing sedation using minimally invasive techniques. General anesthesia is reserved for complex cases.
Recovery depends on the type of surgery and ranges from 1 to 8 weeks. Our team ensures individual follow-up and communication with owners throughout the healing process.
Upper airway disorders are a common cause of reduced performance in horses. Audible breathing noises—especially during exercise—are often the first sign of an anatomical or functional issue affecting structures from the nostrils to the guttural pouches. Surgical treatment is only considered after thorough diagnostics and when conservative measures have been exhausted.
At Hanseklinik, we follow a comprehensive approach combining advanced imaging, functional diagnostics, and years of surgical experience. Many procedures can be performed minimally invasively while the horse remains standing and sedated.
No. Many causes of breathing noise can be treated conservatively or may not affect performance. Surgery is only recommended after a full workup and in clearly diagnosed cases.
Yes. Many procedures—such as sinus surgeries or guttural pouch treatment—can be performed under standing sedation using minimally invasive techniques. General anesthesia is reserved for complex cases.
Recovery depends on the type of surgery and ranges from 1 to 8 weeks. Our team ensures individual follow-up and communication with owners throughout the healing process.
We kindly ask you to schedule appointments by phone. This way, we can plan the best treatment for your horse individually and directly.
+49 4282 - 5946340Please note our separate visiting hours.
Bitte vereinbaren Sie einen Besuchstermin im Voraus. Planen Sie etwa 1 Stunde ein und berühre bitte nur dein eigenes Pferd.
Our clinic is available around the clock for emergencies.In case of an emergency, please call us immediately.
We kindly ask you to schedule appointments by phone. This way, we can plan the best treatment for your horse individually and directly.
+49 4282 - 5946 340Please note our separate visiting hours.
Please schedule your visit in advance. Allow approximately 1 hour, and kindly only touch your own horse.
Our clinic is available around the clock for emergencies.In case of an emergency, please call us immediately.
We kindly ask you to schedule appointments by phone. This way, we can plan the best treatment for your horse individually and directly.
+49 4282 - 5946 340Please note our separate visiting hours.
Bitte vereinbare einen Besuchstermin im Voraus. Plane etwa 1 Stunde ein und berühre bitte nur dein eigenes Pferd.
Our clinic is available around the clock for emergencies.In case of an emergency, please call us immediately.
