## Overview Lip lacerations are traumatic tears of the upper or lower lip from fence wire, kicks, or bit accidents. They impair the horse’s ability to grasp feed and can leave permanent asymmetry if not repaired carefully. The lip has a good blood supply and usually heals well. ## Causes Sharp trauma. ## Diagnosis Visual examination of the wound and assessment of function. ## Treatment Thorough cleaning and surgical repair with fine sutures when the laceration is full-thickness or involves the margin. Antibiotics and tetanus prophylaxis as indicated. Soft feed during healing. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good with proper repair. Minor scars are common but function usually returns. ## Prevention Safe fencing and careful bitting.
visible wound on the lip; difficulty grasping hay or grass; swelling and asymmetry of the muzzle
## Overview Lip lacerations are traumatic tears of the upper or lower lip from fence wire, kicks, or bit accidents. They impair the horse’s ability to grasp feed and can leave permanent asymmetry if not repaired carefully. The lip has a good blood supply and usually heals well. ## Causes Sharp trauma. ## Diagnosis Visual examination of the wound and assessment of function. ## Treatment Thorough cleaning and surgical repair with fine sutures when the laceration is full-thickness or involves the margin. Antibiotics and tetanus prophylaxis as indicated. Soft feed during healing. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good with proper repair. Minor scars are common but function usually returns. ## Prevention Safe fencing and careful bitting.
visible wound on the lip; difficulty grasping hay or grass; swelling and asymmetry of the muzzle