Distal Limb Neurectomy of Horses

Policy

NZVA believes that registered veterinarians should retain the right to recommend and to perform surgical distal limb neurectomy on a horse if, in their professional opinion, it is considered the only appropriate treatment for the existing clinical condition.

Explanation

Surgical neurectomy is performed on horses suffering from chronic foot disease and where there is no response to corrective shoeing, medical therapy or other surgical procedures.  Surgical neurectomy is therefore used when euthanasia is the only alternative.

During surgical neurectomy, which is performed under anaesthesia, the median nerve or the palmar digital nerve is severed, a section of the nerve is removed or chemical destruction of the nerve is performed to desensitise the deeper structures of the foot.

In New Zealand, Thoroughbred Racing New Zealand, Harness Racing New Zealand, and the New Zealand Equestrian Federation deem it illegal to use a neurectomised horse for competition.

Guidelines

The decision to perform neurectomy, the potential post-operative sequelae, the rules of the appropriate body, and the required post-surgical management should be fully discussed with the owner prior to the procedure being performed.

Policy Files: 

10c - Distal Limb Neurectomy - 23May07.pdf