Peritoneal fluid accumulation in the femoral canal as a result of a post-traumatic femoral hydrocele in a mature Warmblood stallion

The following case report documents the clinical presentation, ultrasonographic appearance, surgical management and outcome of a horse with a traumatic tear extending from the superficial and deep inguinal rings, across the aponeurosis of the external abdominal oblique muscle and inguinal ligament, disrupting the femoral ring, vascular lacuna and peritoneum. This subsequently resulted in fluid accumulation within the femoral canal. This unusual injury and presentation gives rise to discussion of the aetiology and nomenclature that should be used to properly describe this injury.