Evaluation of Experimental Jugular Thrombophlebitis in Horses Treated With Heparin

Jugular thrombophlebitis is a major vascular disease in horses and can lead even to death. Heparin is used to inhibit thrombus growth in humans. The aim of this experiment was to evaluate heparin administration in horses with induced thrombophlebitis. Ten animals were subjected to experimental thrombophlebitis and divided into a control group and heparin group (HG). The HG received heparin (150 IU/kg) for 10 days. Coagulation tests, ultrasound, and venography were performed before and after thrombophlebitis induction. Comparing the HG and control group, a break in the growth of the thrombus after the start of administration of the drug and a decrease in the length of the thrombus with the appearance of flow down the sides of the cranial portion of the thrombus were observed. However, after discontinuation of heparin, fast daily growth of the thrombus and decreased blood flow to the side were observed.