Proud Flesh (Exuberant Granulation Tissue) in Horses

Proud Flesh (Exuberant Granulation Tissue)

Overview

Overgrowth of granulation tissue beyond the wound margin, preventing epithelialization and wound closure. Extremely common in equine limb wounds due to poor blood supply, high motion, limited soft tissue, and the horse's inherent exuberant healing response. Wounds on the body rarely develop proud flesh due to better wound contraction and epithelialization.

Signs & Symptoms

Raised, pink to red, cauliflower-like tissue protruding above wound edges; bleeds easily; non-painful; prevents wound closure; most common on the distal limbs; more common in wounds left to heal by second intention; may become very large if left untreated; requires sharp debridement, pressure bandaging, or corticosteroid application

Affected Structures

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Proud Flesh (Exuberant Granulation Tissue) in horses?

Overgrowth of granulation tissue beyond the wound margin, preventing epithelialization and wound closure. Extremely common in equine limb wounds due to poor blood supply, high motion, limited soft tissue, and the horse's inherent exuberant healing response. Wounds on the body rarely develop proud flesh due to better wound contraction and epithelialization.

What are the signs of Proud Flesh (Exuberant Granulation Tissue)?

Raised, pink to red, cauliflower-like tissue protruding above wound edges; bleeds easily; non-painful; prevents wound closure; most common on the distal limbs; more common in wounds left to heal by second intention; may become very large if left untreated; requires sharp debridement, pressure bandaging, or corticosteroid application