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Large Colon Torsion - Horse (view source)
Revision as of 15:36, 27 August 2010
, 15:36, 27 August 2010no edit summary
==Description==
==Description==
Large Colon Torsion results from the rotation of the organ about its long axis. The degree of torsion dictates the severity of clinical signs and the speed at which the condition progresses. Volvulus can occur at any point along the colon; the most common site is the junction between the caecum and the right ventral colon, and most twist in a clockwise direction, when looking at the horse from behind.
Large Colon Torsion results from the rotation of the organ about its long axis. The degree of torsion dictates the severity of clinical signs and the speed at which the condition progresses. Volvulus can occur at any point along the colon; the most common site is the junction between the caecum and the right ventral colon, and most twist in a clockwise direction, when looking at the horse from behind.
The condition can be described as '''strangulating''' if the rotation is greater than 360°, causing vascular as well as luminal obstruction to the intestine. This form of torsion is more serious and acute in presentation, resulting in endotaemia and death within hours if treatment is not prompt.
The condition can be described as '''strangulating''' if the rotation is greater than 360°, causing vascular as well as luminal obstruction to the intestine. This form of torsion is more serious and acute in presentation, resulting in endotaemia and death within hours if treatment is not prompt.
* Abdominal distension
* Abdominal distension
On rectal examination the colon is distented and tympanic, and the mesentry is palpably oedematous.
See '''[[:Category:Colic Diagnosis in the Horse|Colic Diagnosis in Horses]]'''
See '''[[:Category:Colic Diagnosis in the Horse|Colic Diagnosis in Horses]]'''
===Ultrasound===
===Ultrasound===
Abdominal ultrasound reveals a distended large colon with oedematous walls. Peritoneal fluid should be sampled under ultrasound guidance, typical changes include an increase in protein and cellular content.
==Treatment==
==Treatment==