Equine Urogenital Injuries Study Guide

Overview and Clinical Importance

Urogenital injuries represent a critical category of equine disorders commonly tested on the NAVLE. These conditions range from life-threatening emergencies in neonatal foals (ruptured bladder) to chronic management challenges in adult horses (urolithiasis). Understanding the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, and treatment options is essential for any veterinarian working with horses.

This study guide covers the NAVLE-relevant urogenital injuries including: ruptured bladder in neonates, urolithiasis (urinary calculi), urethral injuries and defects, and parturition-related urinary tract trauma in mares. Each topic emphasizes diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and high-yield facts for examination success.

Section 1: Uroperitoneum in Neonatal Foals

Definition and Etiology

Uroperitoneum is defined as urine accumulation in the peritoneal cavity secondary to a defect in the urinary tract. In foals, this most commonly results from rupture of the dorsal bladder wall (73% of cases), urachus (22% of cases), or rarely the ureters (5% of cases).