Use of a carbon dioxide laser for surgical management of cutaneous masses in horses: 32 cases (1993-2000)

OBJECTIVE: To determine outcome of horses in which cutaneous masses were removed with a carbon dioxide laser. DESIGN: Retrospective study. ANIMALS: 32 horses. PROCEDURE: Medical records of horses with 1 or more cutaneous masses treated with a carbon dioxide laser were examined. Follow-up information was obtained through telephone interviews with owners and referring veterinarians. RESULTS: Cutaneous masses were classified as sarcoids (15 horses), neoplastic masses other than sarcoids (squamous cell carcinoma 91; fibroma 1]; and melanoma 1]), and nonneoplastic masses (6). Minimum follow-up time was 6 months. Five sarcoids and 2 squamous cell carcinomas recurred. Seven (21%) horses had complications associated with dehiscence of wounds that had been closed primarily or failure of wound healing because of recurrence of the mass. Twenty-six (81%) owners were satisfied with the cosmetic appearance following surgery. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Results suggest that a carbon dioxide laser may be effective for treatment of cutaneous masses in horses.