Traumatic coccygeal luxation and distal amputation of the tail of an Appaloosa mare

A 17-year-old Appaloosa mare presented to the emergency service for acute, traumatic, partial amputation of the tail at the level of the ninth coccygeal vertebra. The patient did not have tail or anal tone and did not respond to sharp stimulation of skin in the perineal region. Two grade 1 rectal tears were found during rectal palpation. Radiographs revealed dislocation of the second (Cd2) and third (Cd3) caudal vertebrae. The patient was treated with antibiotics, an anti-inflammatory drug and stall confinement. The ninth caudal vertebra was surgically removed to facilitate closure of skin over the wound. When the mare was discharged after 7 days of hospitalisation, she had regained partial sensation of the perineum and partial function of the internal and external anal sphincters. At re-evaluation one year following injury, the mare was able to move her tail laterally and had regained sensation of her perineum and tail; however, she still was unable to lift her tail.