In order to evaluate the influence of parcial closure of the external inguinal ring on testicular morphology and to characterize the local post-operatory changes, six adult horses were submitted to surgery under general anesthesia. The vaginal cavity was opened and approximately 75% of the external inguinal ring was sutured (sutured side). The same procedure was performed on the contralateral side, and the sutures of the external inguinal ring were immediately removed (sham side). The horses were examined daily for four weeks. The surgical procedure induced testicular degeneration and adhesion of the testis to the parietal vaginal tunic. Similar levels of testicular degeneration were detected in both sides (sutured and sham), and none of the testes evaluated had severe degeneration. This procedure can be used for the treatment of inguinal herniation as an alternative to castration and complete closure of the external inguinal ring.
equine; testis; inguinal herniation; herniorraphy
