Surgical Suite

Our surgical suite consists of a large purpose built theatre, induction and recovery boxes and a prep room. The theatre has an electric hoist to move horses around once they are anaesthetised and a highly versatile operating table which can be positioned to suit both the horse’s and surgeon’s requirements. Both the induction and recovery boxes are well padded and designed for the safe induction and recovery from anaesthesia. The recovery box is monitored by CCTV allowing us to watch your horse’s every move.

The surgery is fully equipped to deal with routine surgeries, such as castrations and orthopaedic procedures, as well as emergency procedures, such as penetrating wounds and colic surgeries. We are equipped with an array of stapling devices used in colic surgery to minimise surgical and anaesthesia time.

The hospital has modern arthroscopic equipment allowing minimally invasive surgery for many orthopaedic complaints; this minimises the time out of work for the horse. Minimally invasive laparoscopy in the abdomen is also performed at Ashbrook. Retained testicles and ovaries can be removed using this keyhole surgery and it is often used to aid in making a diagnosis when an abdominal problem persists such as recurrent colic.

The anaesthetic machine and monitoring equipment are excellent allowing heart rate, rhythm, blood pressure and blood oxygenation levels to be monitored simultaneously and continuously. This ensures the anaesthetic is as safe as possible for your horse. Our vets have undertaken further education/training in the administration of anaesthetics to ensure we always have a fully competent team in theatre.