Upper Airway Surgery – Tie Forward

Permanent or intermittent displacement of the soft palate is a common condition in race horses. Due to a stressful event, inflammation of nerve tissue in the airway or anatomical instability of the involved structures, the soft palate flips above the epiglottis to cause a loud expiratory airway noise.

Myectomies as well as attempts at stiffening the soft palate are some of the older procedures available and can certainly be tried today. However, when these procedures fail and the condition has clearly been identified during training (using dynamic/ over ground endoscopy), the tie forward procedure should be considered.

Whilst it incorporates both procedures named above, its major advantage is to physically advance the larynx forward, bringing it closer to the tongue. In this position, these structures are able to lend each other stability with a very good success rate for the patients.

We are happy to talk to you about the need for and benefits of a dynamic endoscopy to evaluate all possible interventions for your case.