Gelding recovers from degloving injury

A Norwegian Fjord gelding with a brown coat and white and black mane, standing in the Cornell Equine Hospital
Osprey at Cornell. Photo: Carol Jennings/CVM

Osprey, a 10-year-old Norwegian-Fjord gelding, came to our equine emergency service for evaluation and treatment of an acute degloving injury, after he ran through a metal gate this summer.

'Degloving' happens when an injury removes skin in a way that can expose bones and tissue, create a skin flap and prevent proper blood circulation.

After treatment, which included cleaning out and suturing up the primary wound, Osprey was comfortable and his leg was healing well. At home, he was put on stall rest and hand walking. We’re glad to hear that he’s gradually returning to his normal activities and fully recovering!

A horse's healed leg after a degloving injury
Osprey's healed leg. Photo provided.

The equine soft tissue surgery service at the Cornell University Hospital for Animals provides outstanding surgical care for horses with a wide range of medical conditions. Our board-certified surgeons have decades of surgical experience and use the most advanced techniques available. They are assisted by skilled surgical residents and veterinary technicians.

The equine general surgery service provides both elective and emergency care. Diagnostic capabilities include high resolution radiology, CT and MRI scanning and endoscopy. Procedures are performed in state-of-the-art surgery suites fully equipped with equipment for both traditional and open surgery and for laparoscopic procedures. We work as part of a team with a broad range of specialists including anesthesiologists, internists, dentists, radiologists and other specialists to ensure our patients receive the most comprehensive care possible. Our experienced staff provides nursing care 24 hours a day.


Visit the soft tissue surgery service online to learn more.