Difference between revisions of "Large Colon Torsion - Horse"
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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 | + | 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. |
==Signalment== | ==Signalment== | ||
| Line 14: | Line 14: | ||
* Tachycardia | * Tachycardia | ||
* Poor periferal pulse quality | * Poor periferal pulse quality | ||
| + | * tachypnoea | ||
* Abdominal distension | * Abdominal distension | ||
Revision as of 15:21, 27 August 2010
Large Colon Torsion is also known as Large colon Volvulus
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.
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.
Signalment
Post parturient mares, large breed horses and those with a history of dietary change are predisposed to the condition.
Diagnosis
Clinical Signs
- Signs of Colic
- Tachycardia
- Poor periferal pulse quality
- tachypnoea
- Abdominal distension
Ultrasound
Treatment
See Medical Treatment of Colic in Horses
Prognosis
Prognosis depends on the degree of volvulous and the speed of diagnosis and treatment. Torsions of less than 270° have a good prognosis, for more severe torsions, those that are stragulating, or in cases where surgery has been delayed, the prognosis is poor.
References
- Mair, T.S, Divers, T.J, Ducharme, N.G (2002) Manual of Equine Gastroenterology, WB Saunders.
- Mair, T., Love, S., Schumacher, J. and Watson, E. (1998) Equine Medicine, Surgery and Reproduction WB Saunders Company Ltd
- Merck & Co (2008) The Merck Veterinary Manual (Eighth Edition) Merial