## Overview Dorsal displacement of the soft palate (DDSP) occurs when the free border of the soft palate moves above the epiglottis during exercise, obstructing airflow. It produces a characteristic gurgling or choking noise and sudden loss of performance. Dysfunction of muscles that position the larynx and hyoid apparatus can contribute. ## Causes Multifactorial: neuromuscular fatigue, inflammation, or anatomic factors affecting palatal stability. ## Diagnosis Exercising endoscopy is required to confirm dynamic displacement. Resting endoscopy is often normal. ## Treatment Options include tack changes, medical management of inflammation, and surgeries such as laryngeal tie-forward or sternothyrohyoid myectomy. Success varies by procedure. ## Recovery and Prognosis Many horses improve with appropriate treatment. Recurrence is possible. ## Prevention Management of airway inflammation and appropriate conditioning.
gurgling or choking noise at speed; sudden slowing; resolves when the horse swallows; exercise intolerance
## Overview Dorsal displacement of the soft palate (DDSP) occurs when the free border of the soft palate moves above the epiglottis during exercise, obstructing airflow. It produces a characteristic gurgling or choking noise and sudden loss of performance. Dysfunction of muscles that position the larynx and hyoid apparatus can contribute. ## Causes Multifactorial: neuromuscular fatigue, inflammation, or anatomic factors affecting palatal stability. ## Diagnosis Exercising endoscopy is required to confirm dynamic displacement. Resting endoscopy is often normal. ## Treatment Options include tack changes, medical management of inflammation, and surgeries such as laryngeal tie-forward or sternothyrohyoid myectomy. Success varies by procedure. ## Recovery and Prognosis Many horses improve with appropriate treatment. Recurrence is possible. ## Prevention Management of airway inflammation and appropriate conditioning.
gurgling or choking noise at speed; sudden slowing; resolves when the horse swallows; exercise intolerance