Guttural Pouch Tympany

What is guttural pouch tympany?
Guttural pouch tympany is a condition where one or both guttural pouches in foals become abnormally distended with air, causing a noticeable swelling just behind the jawbones. It typically occurs in very young foals (days to a few weeks old) and is slightly more common in fillies than colts.

The underlying cause is usually a congenital or functional defect of the Eustachian tube opening, creating a one-way valve effect that allows air to enter the guttural pouch but prevents it from escaping. In some cases, inflammation or infection contributes to the problem.

Clinical Signs

• Visible, often symmetrical swelling behind the mandible
• A hollow, drum-like sound when tapping the swelling
• Mild cases: purely cosmetic
• Severe cases: respiratory distress, difficulty swallowing or nursing

Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on clinical examination and confirmed via endoscopy. Radiographs can help assess the extent of air distension and rule out concurrent pathology.

Treatment

• Endoscopic correction of the Eustachian tube opening to re-establish normal airflow
• Surgical approaches (buccopharyngeal or guttural pouch fenestration) for severe or recurrent cases
• Supportive care for foals with respiratory compromise or secondary infections

Prognosis
The prognosis is excellent with appropriate treatment. Mild cases may resolve spontaneously, but recurrence is common without surgical intervention.