Comparison of medical and surgical treatment for impaction of the small colon in horses: 84 cases (1986-1996).

OBJECTIVE

To characterize clinical findings and compare effects of treatment and outcome for horses treated medically or surgically for impaction of the small colon.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

ANIMALS

84 horses with impaction of the small colon.

PROCEDURE

Medical records were reviewed for history, physical examination findings, laboratory values, treatment, response to treatment, complications, out-come, and necropsy findings.

RESULTS

47 horses were treated medically and 37 horses were treated surgically. Significant differences between groups were not identified for duration of clinical signs, physical examination findings, or laboratory values. Horses treated surgically were hospitalized longer than horses treated medically. Complications recorded during hospitalization included diarrhea, jugular thrombophlebitis, recurrent colic, fever, and laminitis. Salmonella organisms were isolated from 20 horses. Horses treated surgically were more likely to have signs of moderate abdominal pain, gross abdominal distention, and positive results for culture of Salmonella spp than horses treated medically. Follow-up information was available for 27 horses treated medically and 23 horses treated surgically. Twenty-four (72%) and 21 (75%) of the horses, respectively, survived and were being used for their intended purpose at least 1 year after treatment.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Colitis may be a predisposing factor for impaction of the small colon in horses. Prognosis for horses treated surgically or medically is fair.