@article { , title = {Retrospective case series to identify the most common conditions seen ‘out-of-hours’ by first-opinion equine veterinary practitioners}, abstract = {Background: The study aim was to describe conditions seen 'out-of-hours' in equine practice. Methods: This was a retrospective case series of first opinion 'out-of-hours' cases seen at two equine practices between 2011 and 2013. Data were retrieved on case presentation, diagnostic testing, treatment administered and outcome, and diseases categorised using a systems-based coding system. A hierarchical logistic regression, formulated using a generalised linear model, was used to identify clinical variables associated with a binary outcome of 'critical' cases (required hospitalisation or euthanasia or died). Results: Data from 2602 cases were analysed. The most common reasons for 'out-of-hours' visits were colic (35 per cent, n=923/2620), wounds (20 per cent, n=511/2620) and lameness (11 per cent, n=288/2,620). The majority of cases required a single treatment (58 per cent, n=1475/2550), 26 per cent (n=656/2550) needed multiple treatments and 13 per cent (n=339/2550) were euthanased. Eighteen per cent (n=480/2602) of cases had a critical outcome. Increased heart rate at primary presentation was associated with critical outcome in both practices (Practice A, OR 1.07 (95 per cent confidence interval 1.06 to 1.09), Practice B OR 1.08 (95 per cent confidence interval 1.07 to 1.09; p<0.001)). Conclusion; Colic, wounds and lameness were the most common equine 'out-of-hours' conditions; 13 per cent of cases were euthanased. Further research is required into out-of-hours euthanasia decision-making.}, doi = {10.1136/vr.105880}, eissn = {2042-7670}, issue = {10}, journal = {Veterinary Record}, pages = {404-404}, publicationstatus = {Published}, url = {https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/4710122}, volume = {187}, keyword = {equine, horse, emergency, out-of-hours, case series, veterinary practice}, year = {2020}, author = {Boynova, Polina and Bowden, Adelle and Boynova, P.N. and England, Gary C W and Brennan, Marnie Louise and Mair, Tim S and Furness, Wendy A and Freeman, Sarah L and Burford, John H} }