Changes

Exploratory laparotomy may be required in the donkey, as in the horse, for emergency or elective purposes, such as surgical [[Colic - Donkey|colic]], caesareans, and uro-genital surgery.

Exploratory laparotomy may be required in the donkey, as in the horse, for emergency or elective purposes, such as surgical [[Colic - Donkey|colic]], caesareans, and uro-genital surgery.

As discussed, [[Colic - Donkey|colic]] in the donkey, especially [[Impaction Colic - Donkey|impaction colic]], may present with more subtle clinical signs than in a horse. However, acute signs of pain with nasogastric reflux and distended viscera are occasionally seen, and may indicate prompt surgical intervention. It is important to make an assessment of '''triglyceride levels and pancreatic enzymes''' as speedily as possible, as concurrent [[Hyperlipaemia - Donkey|hyperlipaemia]] and/or [[Pancreatitis - Donkey|pancreatitis]] will reduce the prognosis even if recognised and treated. <font color='green'>'''Pancreatitis''' can present with signs of peracute pain in the anterior abdomen, which may be exacerbated by external ballotment behind the ventral sternum. In addition, peritoneal tap samples may show high levels of neutrophils, amylase and lipase.

As discussed, [[Colic - Donkey|colic]] in the donkey, especially [[Impaction Colic - Donkey|impaction colic]], may present with more subtle clinical signs than in a horse. However, acute signs of pain with nasogastric reflux and distended viscera are occasionally seen, and may indicate prompt surgical intervention. It is important to make an assessment of '''triglyceride levels and pancreatic enzymes''' as speedily as possible, as concurrent [[Hyperlipaemia - Donkey|hyperlipaemia]] and/or [[Pancreatitis - Donkey|pancreatitis]] will reduce the prognosis even if recognised and treated. '''Pancreatitis''' can present with signs of peracute pain in the anterior abdomen, which may be exacerbated by external ballotment behind the ventral sternum. In addition, peritoneal tap samples may show high levels of neutrophils, amylase and lipase.

A peritoneal tap provides useful information; however most UK donkeys carry considerable fat deposits above the linea alba. If ultrasound is available, the depth of the peritoneal fat may be measured and an appropriate needle or (more safely) a teat cannula used.</font color>

The examination of the donkey with suspected surgical colic may be hampered due to the small size of the patient. A '''rectal examination''' is nearly always possible even if sedation is required. If this is truly impossible, '''ultrasound examination''' of the abdomen externally should be performed to assess viscera size, position and motility.

In aged donkeys, a good assessment of [[Donkey - Dental Problems|dental disorders]] and possible [[Chronic foot disease - donkey|chronic hoof disease]] should be made before surgery is contemplated. Our records show that internal neoplasia is also a significant complicating factor in geriatric donkeys. This should be taken into account and discussed with the donkey owner, especially if there has been a history of progressive weight loss, or unexplained changes in haematological/biochemical

 

In aged donkeys, a good assessment of [[Dental Problems - Donkey|dental disorders]] and possible [[Chronic foot disease - donkey|chronic hoof disease]] should be made before surgery is contemplated. Our records show that internal neoplasia is also a significant complicating factor in geriatric donkeys. This should be taken into account and discussed with the donkey owner, especially if there has been a history of progressive weight loss, or unexplained changes in haematological/biochemical

parameters. Despite all the warnings, donkeys have been successfully operated on for correctable surgical lesions, for example, small intestine strangulation and large colon displacements.

parameters. Despite all the warnings, donkeys have been successfully operated on for correctable surgical lesions, for example, small intestine strangulation and large colon displacements.