Rectal tears are serious injuries in the horse, most commonly occurring as a result of rectal examination by a veterinarian. Other less common causes of tears include dystocia, ruptured haematomas, spinal fractures, strictures and thromboembolism. Rectal tears may occur in horses of all ages although nervous or young horses are more often affected. Arabaians and small horses are also more prone to developing tears.
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Rectal tears are serious injuries in the horse, most commonly occurring as a result of rectal examination by a veterinarian. Other less common causes of tears include dystocia, ruptured haematomas, spinal fractures, strictures and thromboembolism. Most rectal tears are located dorsally, 25-30 cm from the anus at the junction of the rectum and the small colon. Rectal tears may occur in horses of all ages although nervous or young horses are more often affected. Arabaians and small horses are also more prone to developing tears.
Rectal tears are classified according to the layers of the bowel wall.
Rectal tears are classified according to the layers of the bowel wall.